Today, we will discuss what PTFE is and how it is made. You will learn its properties which make this raw material unique. Plus, you will also know about its applications in industries where PTFE is suitable to use. We explained its pros and cons that help you in making decisions about PTFE and how you can get benefits from this material.
What is PTFE Teflon?
PTFE is a synthetic plastic material used as a high-performance polymer in various industries. PTFE full form is polytetrafluoroethylene. It is known by the famous brand name teflon. The Teflon™ trademark was originally developed and registered by DuPont. But now it is owned by Chemours. PTFE is found in different forms such as powder and granules.
Teflon Discovery: On April 6, 1938, American chemist Roy J. Plunkett discovered PTFE accidentally. He was trying to find a non-toxic coolant gas for refrigerant at DuPont’s Jackson laboratory. But he reveals the white and slippery polytetrafluoroethylene, which is used to develop other fluoropolymers.
Is Teflon PTFE?
Not exactly. Many teflon products are based on PTFE, but not every PTFE product can be called teflon. It is due to the reason that teflon is simply a brand name for polytetrafluoroethylene. But many companies around the world start to manufacture PTFE without using this trademark.
In short, PTFE is a generic and scientific name for fluoropolymers made of carbon and fluorine. While teflon is a well known brand name which covers fluoropolymers products include PTFE.
What is PTFE Made of?
Polytetrafluoroethylene is composed of carbon and fluorine atoms. It is created from the polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) gas. But TFE is also a raw material which is formed by reacting hydrofluoric acid with chloroform under high heat.
PTFE Structure: Basically, it is a linear molecular frame in which carbon atoms form backbone chains. While fluorine atoms surround the carbon chain like a protective sheath. As a result, this bond becomes strong and stable, which provides heat and chemical resistance to PTFE.
How is PTFE Made?
The manufacturing of PTFE is done in two steps that combine raw industrial materials into slippery and heat resistant polymers.
- First of all, tetrafluoroethylene gas is produced to combine fluorspar, hydrofluoric acid and chloroform.
- As TFE is highly reactive and flammable, you need to make it on the site without transferring it from one place to another.
- After this, it is introduced in the high purity water containing catalysts. Then suspension polymerization starts.
- In this process, surfactants are not added. Manufacturers use it to mold solid parts into sheets and rods.
- At the end, surfactants are used to create a milky paste that dries into a fine powder. It is suitable for non-stick coating.
Properties of PTFE
Polytetrafluoroethylene is a famous synthetic fluoropolymer which is widely used in various industries. There are its exceptional properties that make it popular. Some of them are as follows.
Chemical Inertness
Basically, PTFE has chemical resistance against almost all industrial chemicals, acids and corrosive solvents. As a result, this material is not reactive with substance.
You can use it freely where chances of corrosion are increased. Its smooth surface also helps to resist chemical attack and material degradation. Plus, it is naturally flame resistant and difficult to ignite.
Thermal Stability
Teflon PTFE coatings can withstand a wide range of temperatures without any destruction. Mainly it can operate safely from -200°C to +260°C (-328°F to 500°F).
This material does not lose its chemical and physical properties at this high temperature. But it starts to melt at 327°C. These characteristics make it ideal for applications in the aerospace and automotive industry.
Non Stick Property
Low coefficient of friction is a unique property of PTFE which provides excellent performance. Due to this, its surface is so slippery and smooth that you can use it in non-stick utensils.
Additionally, it is also useful in those applications where a high level of mechanical stress is required. You can utilize this material in seals, pins, bushings, gears and drive systems.
Electrical Insulation
PTFE material is also a good insulator of electricity. It has high dielectric strength which does not allow electricity to pass through it. This excellent property helps it to maintain its qualities under harsh conditions.
That’s why you can use it in electrical wires, cable insulation, connectors, circuit boards, high frequency equipment and other electronic components.
Low Water Absorption
Is PTFE waterproof? One of the main features of polytetrafluoroethylene is its resistance against water. It does not absorb water and swells in a moist environment. Due to this, you can use this material in wound dressings easily.
It prevents your infection and cuts from being wet. As a result, you remain safe from changing the bandages frequently. However, it is also useful in many other processes.
Weather Resistance
PTFE has excellent environmental resistance that it does not damage by sunlight, moisture, ozone and temperature changes. You can easily use this material in your outdoor appliances such as hoses, patio machinery seals and electrical insulation. They can withstand for a long time in harsh weather conditions due to this material. So, you do not have to worry about them.
Strength & Durability
There is no doubt that PTFE is softer than other engineering plastics and materials. But its softness helps you to bend it in every shape easily. It does not crack and break. Its high resistance against chemicals and temperature make it efficient. Additionally, it resists aging and moisture which increase its lifespan. You can use this material in your applications for a long time.
Grades of PTFE
Polytetrafluoroethylene has different grades which include virgin, modified and popular filled compounds. The main things about them are as follows.
| Type | Filler Content | Features | Applications |
| Virgin PTFE | None (100% pure) | Highest chemical resistance, FDA complaints, excellent electrical insulation | Food processing, medical devices, chemical resistant seals |
| Chemically Modified PTFE | Molecular modification | Lower creep, better permeation resistance, improved weldability | High purity fluid handling, chemical liners |
| Glass Filled | 15% – 25% glass fiber | High compressive strength, reduced creep & improved wear resistance | Heavy duty bearings, valves seats, pump components |
| Carbon Filled PTFE | 10% – 35% carbon | Excellent wear resistance, low friction, good thermal conductivity | Dynamic seals, high speed bearings and bushings |
| Graphite Filled | 15% graphite | Extremely low friction, self lubricating & good chemical resistance | High speed sliding parts, non lubricated compressors |
| Bronze Filled PTFE | 40% – 60% bronze | High mechanical strength, good thermal conductivity | Piston rings, heavy duty bearings & hydraulic components |
| Stainless Steel Filled | 5% – 10% stainless steel | High hardness, excellent resistance to extrusion and wear under extreme loads | Specialized industrial scraper rings, high load mechanical parts |
PTFE Uses You Should Know
What is ptfe used for? Polytetrafluoroethylene which is also known as teflon is used across consumer and industrial fields. Due to its non-stick nature, low friction and chemical resistance, you can note its applications in following sectors.
Fabrics
As you know that PTFE has resistance against heat, moisture, chemicals and weathering, so it is used to make specific fabrics. These PTFE coated clothes are suitable for outdoor working.
Because they are waterproof and stain resistant. That is why you can use it in the manufacturing of rain jackets, tents, industrial conveyor belts, architectural membranes and filtration fabrics.
PTFE Lubricant and Grease
Some greases and lubricants have PTFE material in their compositions. It helps to reduce friction between moving parts. As a result, all components of machines remain safe from corrosion and wear.
Due to its low coefficient friction, parts go smoothly. PTFE lubricants are mostly used in machinery, automotive components, hinges, bearing and other moving mechanical parts.
Electrical Applications
You can find the main role of polytetrafluoroethylene plastic in electronics. As it is an excellent electricity resistant, you can utilize it in covering of wires, boards, cables and electronic components. As a result, you can remain safe from electric shocks. It is also suitable for those environments where high temperature or demanded operating conditions are involved.
Cookware and Household Items
Generally, PTFE is used as a non-stick coating on cookware including frying pans, rice cookers and baking sheets. Due to this coat, food does not stick with the surface and you can easily cook. It also helps you to clean these utensils fastly. However, PTFE is used in many other household products where low friction and chemical resistance is required.
PTFE Hose & Tubing
In place of ordinary rubber or plastic hoses, you can use PTFE hoses and tubes. They provide you excellent resistance against chemicals and temperature where these normal hoses can not work.
You can also install polytetrafluoroethylene pipes to transfer harsh acids in your industry. Plus, this material is used in some plumber’s tapes which help you to create tight and leak proof seals.
Medical Equipment
PTFE is used in the medical field as a coating on some medical tubings and catheters to make a smooth surface. It helps you to clean them easily. Due to this coat, you can move the tube easily and it reduces the irritation. It is also used in certain surgical implants because it is highly biocompatible. For instance, ePTFE (expanded PTFE) is used in some vascular grafts and heart patches.
Automotive and Aerospace
In automotive and aerospace systems, PTFE is used in seals and gaskets. Because this material has the ability to withstand high temperatures. It can handle exposure to oils, fuels, lubricants and chemicals. Due to its lubricity, you can use it in certain bushings and bearings.
In spacecraft parts, PTFE is used as an electrical insulator. It is also helpful in certain fuel system components.
Advantages and Disadvantages of PTFE
PTFE is a unique raw material which provides you with a lot of benefits. Some of the main advantages of PTFE are as follows.
- It is safe to use in an industrial environment because it does not react with chemicals, acids and alkalis.
- This material provides you a non-stick surface which has a low coefficient of friction.
- You can use it in extreme high temperatures from −200°C to +260°C (−325°F to +500°F).
- It acts as a powerful electrical and thermal insulator, maintaining performance under high voltages and frequencies.
- PTFE is hydrophobic in that it repels water and resists moisture absorption. Plus, it has weather resistance.
- It is non toxic and FDA compliant. You can use it for food processing, beverage and medical applications.
With numerous benefits, PTFE has some drawbacks also. You need to know about them which helps you in making decisions.
- It has poor tensile strength that this material can degrade easily as compared to other plastics such as PEEK.
- If you heat PTFE above 300°C – 320°C, it can release toxic fumes which are harmful for you.
- It is non biodegradable and it is very difficult to recycle this material at a large scale.
- PTFE deforms under sustained and steady load overtime. It can cause seals and fasteners to lose their grip.
Final Remarks
Hence, PTFE is an excellent plastic which has various features such as chemical resistance, low friction and thermal stability. RONTEIX is a professional manufacturer in China. We use PTFE in our products. You can see our PTFE hoses and PTFE tubes for your projects. We also provide you customization so you can tell your requirements to our team.
FAQs
Is PTFE banned?
Polytetrafluoroethylene is not globally banned but it faces various regulatory restrictions. It is due to the reason that it belongs to the broader family of PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substance). So, PTFE is proposed to be banned.
Is PTFE a PFAS?
Yes, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is classified as a type of PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substance). Because it contains a strong carbon fluorine bond. However, PTFE is totally different from the small and mobile PFAS molecules that cause severe health and environmental issues.
What is a PTFE graft?
It is a synthetic tube made of polytetrafluoroethylene used in surgery to replace or bypass damaged blood vessels. It is also known by a brand name teflon or gore tex.
Is PTFE harmful to humans?
Basically, PTFE is non toxic and safe to use under normal conditions. But it can become hazardous in specific situations. If you heat it above 260°C (500°F), PTFE starts to break down and release toxic fumes.
Why use PTFE tape?
It is used to create a leak-proof seal in threaded pipes and hose connections. PTFE tape is also helpful in filling gaps between metal or plastic connectors. You can also call it thread seal tape or plumber’s tape.
