Thermoplastic elastomers, fluorinated applications

Some fluoropolymers prepared by DT with iodo-compounds have already been commercialized such as Daiel, Viton, and Technoflon. Such fluoroelastomers may find applications in high technology such as in O-rings, gaskets, hoses, transportation, medical devices, and electronics. The control of the architecture and functionality of the polymer chains makes possible the preparation of peroxide curable fiuoroelastomer with improved properties as well as the development of advanced fluorinated thermoplastic elastomers. Another application of functional fluoropolymers prepared by DT with iodo-compounds is the preparation of membranes for fuel cells. 

Cheng et al. [1990] refer to several possible polymeric blends, consisting of fluorinated and non-fluorinated, elastomeric and non-elastomeric, polymers and copolymers, which may also contain crosslinking agents and other additives, for use in cable jackets and heat-recoverable e.g., heat-shrinkable) articles. They point out that PVDF, and copolymers of ethylene and tetrafluo-roethylene (ETFE) have many desirable properties but their high stiffness can be undesirable for certain applications. However, their blends with some thermoplastic elastomers show markedly reduced stiffness, while substantially retaining their other desirable properties. Cheng et al. 

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