Fluoropolymers are fluorocarbon-based, high-performance plastics used in many unique, highly specialized applications where other materials simply cannot perform. For example, fluoropolymers are essential to coating cable wiring because they have the unique ability to withstand high heat and corrosive environments. Their non-stick, low-friction (smooth) properties are unmatched, making them the best solution for applications in markets including aerospace, electronics and telecommunications.
Fluoropolymers are virtually maintenance free, even in the most extreme conditions, and they make life safer and more efficient every day.
Different types of fluoropolymers
Each fluoropolymer has unique beneficial qualities. They can be divided into categories based on their physical properties, processing characteristics and uses.
- Homopolymers—As the name suggests, these are made up of one specific monomer. Fluoropolymers in this category are sold in a granular or powder form, which is melted down, extruded, and compression molded into components, or combined with liquid and sprayed onto a surface to help protect the surface from exposure to chemicals, friction or temperature changes. One common homopolymer is PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) which is used in non-stick cookware.
- Copolymers—To create a copolymer, more than one specific monomer is used. They are bonded together to give the material additional qualities. Copolymers can be processed much like many other types of engineering-grade plastics; they are often injection molded or extruded. An example of a copolymer is PFA (perfluoroalkoxy) which is used for applications where protection from corrosive materials such as aggressive chemicals is needed.
- Fluoroelastomers—Elastomers are rubber-like plastic materials that return to their original shape after being deformed. Fluoroelastomers possess the same characteristics as elastomers but with additional non-stick, low-friction, chemical-resistant and temperature-resistant properties that make them ideal for such things as seals in automotive and aerospace applications.
More ways fluoropolymers are used
Fluoropolymers are the go-to materials for specific applications in many important industries and high-intensity applications. Without them, safety and performance in crucial areas could be compromised.
Aerospace/Military
Fluoropolymers help to increase passenger protection and reliability on commercial, private and military aircraft. They are also used in wire and cable insulation, fuel and hydraulic hoses, seals/bushings and even space apparel for astronauts.
Automotive/Transportation
Fluoropolymers help automobile manufacturers produce lighter-weight vehicles that are extremely reliable. They are used in fuel and brake hoses and tubing, control cables and under-hood wire.
Chemical/Petrochemical processing
Fluoropolymers help create non-stick surfaces in applications that require temperature resistance. They are used in lined pipes, valves, pumps, tank and reactor linings, gaskets and seals.
Semiconductor/Electronics manufacturing
Fluoropolymers are used to boost productivity and purity in an array of processes, helping manufacturers create high-quality, cost-effective electronics. Since other materials lack the chemical and temperature resistance and electrical performance of fluoropolymers, they are the number-one choice.
Telecommunications
Fluoropolymers are used in wire insulation, local area network (LAN) cables, mainframe wiring, satellite wiring and fiber-optic cladding and cable. They are the material of choice for wire insulation in our complex telecommunications system.
Concerns about fluoropolymers
There can be some confusion about the safety of fluoropolymers, which stems more from the materials used to produce fluoropolymers than from the polymers themselves.
The fluoropolymers used today are safe.
Historically, fluoropolymers were processed using two types of acid—PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid). Because of their unique properties, these chemicals tend to remain in the environment. Although their health effects are uncertain, there is a possibility that exposure to PFOA and PFOS can have negative impacts on human health.
Responding to concerns about fluoropolymers
PFOA and PFOS are no longer manufactured in the U.S.When concerns about these processing materials arose, major chemical manufacturers agreed to eliminate the use of PFOA and similar substances in their products, under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) PFOA Stewardship Program. Significant New Use Rules (SNURs), which have the weight of EPA regulations, generally prevent companies from importing or manufacturing such perfluorinated chemicals without prior approval by the EPA.
After the removal of PFOA and PFOS, companies developed alternatives to these substances that perform the same tasks without the same environmental or possible public health risks. All of these replacements are safe to use according to governmental agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the EPA.