Effects of High pH on sewer pipe rubber rings

[RJMTM]

Would be grateful for information as to the effects of high pH waste on the rubber rings between sewer pipes.

 

[dicksewerrat]

What do you mean by high, 9 or 12.5? Talk to your pipe supplier about tests on their gasket material. ASTM has specs. on the gasket material. It should be in the same volume as the pipe material. I think its in 8.01 for plastic pipe. Most gaskets are a neoprene.

 

[RGCook]

My experience with natural rubber and high pH is that the alkalinity dries the rubber out causing premature cracking and leaks. Not sure of the mechanism, but it can and does happen.

At pH 9, you really don't have an issue. I am talking pH 12.5+, and due to strong base like NaOH, KOH. Lime is pretty forgiving for example.

Also, watch out for organics that cause swelling of the rubber!

Hope this helps.