Knowra Fluoropolymers Fluoropolymers Fluoropolymers are polymers whose structures contain carbon–fluorine bonds. Their strong bonds and distinctive surface properties give many members high chemical resistance, thermal stability, and low friction.
Carbon–fluorine bond : A covalent bond between carbon and fluorine, notable for its high bond strength and polarity. Its strength underlies the chemical and thermal durability common to fluoropolymers.
Polytetrafluoroethylene : A fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene known for chemical resistance, low friction, and nonstick behavior. PTFE is the best-known fluoropolymer in coatings, seals, and cookware.
Hydrophobic effect : The tendency of nonpolar substances to aggregate in water, reducing their exposure to it. Fluorinated surfaces often resist wetting, though surface behavior depends on structure and treatment.
Polyethylene : A widely used polymer made from ethylene, with a carbon–hydrogen backbone. Replacing hydrogen with fluorine changes surface behavior, chemical resistance, and cost.
Polymer : A substance made of molecules containing many repeating structural units. Fluoropolymers are polymers distinguished by carbon–fluorine bonds.
Fluorinated ethylene propylene : A melt-processable copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and hexafluoropropylene. FEP offers PTFE-like chemical resistance in applications needing melt processing.
Surface energy : The excess energy at a material’s surface relative to its interior. Low surface energy helps explain fluoropolymers’ poor adhesion and nonstick behavior.
Silicone : A family of polymers with backbones made mainly of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms. Silicones offer heat resistance and flexibility through a different backbone chemistry.
Tetrafluoroethylene : A fluorinated alkene used as the monomer for polytetrafluoroethylene. This monomer forms the carbon–fluorine-rich backbone of PTFE.
Polyvinylidene fluoride : A fluoropolymer valued for chemical resistance, mechanical strength, and piezoelectric behavior. PVDF serves both as a durable material and as an active component in sensors and batteries.
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