Teflon, formally known as polytetrafluoroethylene teflon (PTFE), is a high-performance thermoplastic fluoropolymer with unique properties that make it indispensable in industrial, medical, and consumer applications. Its molecular structure of carbon-fluorine bonds creates exceptional chemical inertness, thermal stability, and low friction characteristics. These properties stem from PTFE's semi-crystalline structure and strong covalent bonds, resulting in materials that outperform conventional plastics in extreme environments.
Key Points Explained:
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Thermoplastic Classification
- Teflon is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic, meaning it softens when heated (typically above 327°C) and solidifies upon cooling, allowing for melt-processing techniques like extrusion.
- Unlike thermosets, PTFE can be remelted and reshaped, though its high melt viscosity requires specialized sintering methods.
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Core Physical Properties
- Thermal Stability: Withstands continuous use at 260°C (500°F) and short-term exposure up to 327°C (melting point).
- Density: 2.13–2.20 g/cm³, lighter than metals but denser than many polymers.
- Electrical Insulation: Resistivity of 10¹⁶–10¹⁸ Ω·cm and dielectric strength of 40–60 kV/mm, ideal for high-voltage applications.
- Low Thermal Conductivity: 0.25–0.29 W/(m·K), useful for thermal barriers.
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Chemical Resistance
- PTFE is nearly inert, resisting all known acids (including hydrofluoric acid), bases, and organic solvents.
- Only reactive with alkali metals (e.g., molten sodium) and fluorine gas under extreme conditions.
- Low water absorption (<0.01%) prevents swelling in humid environments.
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Tribological Advantages
- Low Friction: Coefficient of friction as low as 0.05, comparable to wet ice.
- Non-Stick Surface: Prevents adhesion of substances from adhesives to biological tissues, enabling applications like non-stick cookware and medical catheters.
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Mechanical Behavior
- High tensile strength (20–35 MPa) but exhibits cold flow (creep) under sustained loads.
- High thermal expansion coefficient (100–135 × 10⁻⁶/°C) requires design compensation in engineering applications.
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Specialized Applications
- Industrial: Gaskets, pump linings, and wire insulation in corrosive environments.
- Medical: Implantable devices due to biocompatibility.
- Consumer: Non-stick coatings and low-friction bearings.
Have you considered how PTFE’s combination of properties enables its use in space applications, where extreme temperatures and vacuum conditions exist? Its stability and low outgassing make it a silent enabler of aerospace technology.
Summary Table:
| Property | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Thermoplastic Type | Semi-crystalline, melt-processable (327°C melting point) |
| Thermal Stability | Continuous use at 260°C; short-term up to 327°C |
| Chemical Resistance | Resists all acids, bases, and solvents (except alkali metals/fluorine gas) |
| Friction Coefficient | As low as 0.05 (comparable to wet ice) |
| Electrical Insulation | Resistivity: 10¹⁶–10¹⁸ Ω·cm; dielectric strength: 40–60 kV/mm |
| Mechanical Strength | Tensile strength: 20–35 MPa; prone to cold flow under load |
| Key Applications | Industrial gaskets, medical implants, non-stick coatings, aerospace components |
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