PTFE anti-stick properties

A second problem is the tendency of PTFE to creep under applied pressure, which limits the mechanic stability of PTFE devices. This can be overcome to some extent by blending PTFE with filler materials, such as glass or carbon. Also the otherwise highly advantageous anti-stick properties of PTFE cause pro-... 

Solid perfluorocarbon surfaces also have extremely low surface energies Thus, poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE, Teflon) has a y value of 18.5 dyn cm which is the reason for the anti-stick and low-friction properties used for frying pans and other applications. That this effect is directly related to the fluorine content becomes obvious on comparison of the surface energies of poly(difluoro-ethylene) (25 dyn cm ), poly(fluoroethylene) (28 dyn cm ), and polyethylene (31 dyn cm Y If only one fluorine atom in PTFE is replaced by more polarizable chlorine, the surface energy of the resulting poly(chlorotrifluoroethylene) jumps to 31 dyn cm , the same value as for polyethylene [8]. 

Because of the excellent electrical properties, PTFE is used in a variety of electrical applications such as wire and cable insulation and insulation for motors, capacitors, coils, and transformers. PTFE is also used for chemical equipment such as valve parts and gaskets. The low friction characteristics make PTFE suitable for use in bearings, mold release devices, and anti-stick cookware. Low-molecular-weight polymers may be used in aerosols for dry lubrication. ... 

Fluoroethylenepropyl e (FEP) is also similar to PTFE in properties but is processable by more conventional methods. It is available in granules and dispersions. Applications are more in the electrical than chemical fields, including cable insulation, connectors, and base material for printed circuits. However FEP s anti-sticking and anti-corrosion properties are used in control valves and machine parts in the paper, textile and bakery industries and in domestic kitchen ware. 

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