Fluoropolymer

A fluoropolymer is a fluorocarbon-based polymer with multiple carbon and fluorine bonds. It is characterised by a high resistance to solvents, acids, and bases. Fluoropolymers share the non-stick and low-friction properties of fluorocarbons. Thanks to the multiple carbon and fluorine bonds, they are mechanically characterized as thermoset or thermoplastic. They can be homopolymers (macromolecules formed by identical monomers) or copolymers (macromolecules formed by two or more different monomers).

Fluoropolymer properties

Low surface energy
Low coefficient of friction
High resistance to chemical agents
High abrasion resistance
Stable over a wide temperature range: from -270 °C to 300 °C
Low electrical conductivity

Examples of fluoropolymers

PVDF: it is a polyvinylidene fluoride, like Kynar or Hylar
PTFE: it is a polytetrafluoroethylene, the best known is Teflon
PCTFE: it is a polychlorotrifluoroethylene, like Neoflon
FEP: it is a fluorinated ethylene-propylene, like Teflon FEP
PFA, MFA: it is a perfluoroalkoxy polymer, like Hyflon