Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon, is a versatile fluoropolymer prized for its unique combination of properties. It exhibits exceptional chemical resistance, thermal stability, and nonstick characteristics, making it invaluable across industries from cookware to medical devices. Its low friction coefficient, electrical insulation capabilities, and biocompatibility further expand its applications. PTFE maintains performance across extreme temperatures (-200°C to +260°C) while resisting UV, weathering, and most chemicals. These properties stem from its strong carbon-fluorine bonds and molecular structure, creating a material that outperforms many alternatives in harsh environments.
Key Points Explained:
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Chemical Resistance
- PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is virtually inert, resisting attacks from:
- Strong acids (e.g., sulfuric, nitric)
- Bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide)
- Solvents (including hydrocarbons and ketones)
- Exception: Reacts with alkali metals and fluorine at high temperatures.
Purchasing Insight: Ideal for lab equipment linings and chemical storage where corrosion resistance is critical.
- PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is virtually inert, resisting attacks from:
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Thermal Properties
- Operates from -200°C to +260°C continuously
- Melting point: 327°C (620°F)
- Low thermal conductivity (0.25 W/m·K)
Application Tip: Suitable for high-temperature gaskets or insulating components in aerospace/automotive sectors.
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Low Friction & Nonstick Surface
- Coefficient of friction: ~0.05 (lowest among solids)
- Non-wetting surface prevents adhesion of:
- Sticky substances (adhesives, foods)
- Biological materials (proteins, bacteria)
Usage Example: Reduces wear in bearings and seals without lubricants.
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Electrical Insulation
- Dielectric strength: 60 kV/mm
- Stable performance across frequencies (50 Hz to 30 GHz)
- Arc resistance: >300 seconds
Design Consideration: Preferred for high-frequency cables and semiconductor components.
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Mechanical Characteristics
- Tensile strength: 20-35 MPa (moderate)
- Flexible but non-elastic (creeps under load)
- Density: 2.1-2.3 g/cm³ (heavier than many plastics)
Selection Note: Requires reinforcement (e.g., glass fiber) for load-bearing applications.
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Biocompatibility & Safety
- FDA-approved for food/medical contact
- Non-toxic (unless overheated >260°C)
- Used in:
- Surgical implants (vascular grafts)
- Pharmaceutical processing equipment
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Environmental Stability
- UV/weather resistant (50+ years outdoor lifespan)
- Hydrophobic (water contact angle: 110°)
- Flame retardant (LOI: 95%)
Procurement Tip: Verify PTFE grade (virgin vs. reprocessed) for critical applications—virgin PTFE offers superior consistency in purity and performance. Consider filled PTFE (with bronze, carbon, etc.) when enhanced wear resistance or conductivity is needed.
Summary Table:
| Property | PTFE Characteristics | Industrial Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Resistance | Resists acids, bases, solvents (except alkali metals/fluorine) | Lab equipment linings, chemical storage |
| Thermal Stability | -200°C to +260°C operating range; melting point 327°C | High-temperature gaskets, aerospace components |
| Low Friction | Coefficient ~0.05 (lowest among solids) | Bearings, seals, non-lubricated mechanisms |
| Electrical Insulation | Dielectric strength 60 kV/mm; stable up to 30 GHz | High-frequency cables, semiconductor parts |
| Biocompatibility | FDA-approved; non-toxic below 260°C | Medical implants, pharmaceutical equipment |
| Environmental | UV/weather resistant (50+ years); hydrophobic; flame retardant (LOI 95%) | Outdoor industrial components, safety-critical parts |
Upgrade your industrial solutions with precision-engineered PTFE components!
KINTEK specializes in high-performance PTFE products—from seals and liners to custom labware—tailored for semiconductor, medical, and industrial applications. Our expertise ensures:
- Material Excellence: Virgin PTFE for critical purity or reinforced variants for enhanced durability
- Custom Fabrication: Prototypes to high-volume orders with exacting specifications
- Industry-Specific Designs: Optimized for chemical processing, high-temperature environments, and biocompatible uses
Contact our PTFE specialists today to discuss your project requirements or request material samples.