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Home > News & Articles > Uses of Teflon: Definition, Structure, Properties, Chemical Production and Advantage
Updated on 24th January, 2024 , 5 min read
Uses of Teflon: Teflon is a chemical compound made of synthetic fluoropolymer known as polytetrafluoroethylene, has been widely used in various applications since its accidental discovery by Roy Plunkett in 1938 while working for DuPont in New Jersey. Although most recognized as a key component in non-stick cookware utensils, Teflon has found diverse uses beyond the kitchen. Interestingly, in the 1990s, it was discovered that, in an oxygen-free atmosphere with potential for radiation cross-links, polytetrafluoroethylene could undergo a transformation above its melting point.
Teflon, composed of carbon and fluorine, is a high molecular weight fluorocarbon solid. Due to the high electronegativity of fluorine, Teflon exhibits low London dispersion forces and is highly hydrophobic, preventing water and water-containing substances from wetting its surface.
Teflon's non-reactive nature can be attributed to the strong bonds between carbon and fluorine atoms. This makes it a popular choice for containers and pipework in industries that handle reactive and corrosive chemicals. Teflon is also widely used as a non-stick coating for cookware, reducing the need for oil or other cooking agents.
As a lubricant, Teflon is highly effective in reducing friction, wear, and the energy consumption of machinery. It is also commonly used as a graft material in surgical interventions, owing to its biocompatibility and non-reactive nature. Additionally, Teflon finds application as a coating on catheters, improving their durability and reducing the risk of infection.
Read more about the Displacement Reaction Definition, Types of Hybridization, and SI Unit of Displacement.
Teflon is produced by tetrafluoroethylene undergoing a free radical polymerization process. The chemical equation for the process is
nF2C=CF2→ -(F2C-CF2)n-
As it is necessary to have a special apparatus for preventing hot spots during the process of polymerization from triggering side reactions that are dangerous. It is due to the fact that tetrafluoroethylene can decompose explosively into carbon and tetrafluoromethane. The process starts with the haemolyzing of persulfate, which gives sulphate radicals:
[O3SO−OSO3]2− ⇌2SO4.−
The result of this reaction is the termination of the polymer using sulphate ester groups. It can create OH end-groups by hydrolyzing.
The chemical compound has a bad reputation for being a solvent in almost all solutions, therefore, the process of polymerization happens in water through the emulsion. Sometimes a surfactant like PFOS is used for polymerization.
Teflon, a synthetic fluoropolymer made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), has a wide range of applications across various industries due to its unique properties. Here are some common use of Teflon:
Sure, here's a table showing the applications of Teflon in various industries:
Industry | Applications of Teflon |
Kitchen | Non-stick coatings for cookware, bakeware, and other kitchen utensils |
Industrial | Coatings for bearings, gaskets, seals, valves, and pipes to protect them from wear and tear, reduce friction, and enhance their performance |
Electrical | Coatings for wires, cables, and connectors to prevent them from short-circuiting and protect them from moisture, heat, and chemicals |
Medical | Coatings for medical devices, implants, and prosthetics due to Teflon's biocompatibility with the human body |
Automotive | Coatings for engine components such as piston rings and bearings to reduce friction and wear, enhancing their performance and durability |
Chemical processing | Coatings for tanks, pipes, and other equipment that comes in contact with chemicals to protect them from corrosion and chemical damage |
Uses of Teflon advantages over other compounds or polymers are listed as follows:
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