PVDFHFP

PVDF-HFP stands for poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene), a fluoropolymer produced by copolymerizing vinylidene fluoride with hexafluoropropylene. The inclusion of hexafluoropropylene in the PVDF chain reduces crystallinity and increases flexibility compared with PVDF homopolymers, while preserving chemical and thermal stability. PVDF-HFP is commercially available in various grades with different molecular weights and comonomer contents, and is commonly sold under trade names such as Kynar Flex.

Properties of PVDF-HFP include excellent chemical resistance to acids, bases, and organic solvents, high thermal stability, and good dielectric properties. Its solubility in common polar organic solvents enables solvent-based processing, including film casting, coating, and extrusion. The hexafluoropropylene content can be adjusted to tailor crystallinity, melting point, flexibility, and mechanical strength, allowing a range of material properties suited to different applications.

Applications of PVDF-HFP are broad. It is used in semipermeable membranes for water treatment and gas separation, and as a binder or component in lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries where it supports electrode films and gel polymer electrolytes. It also serves as a corrosion-resistant coating, protective film, and insulation material in electrical and electronic devices.

Safety and handling considerations: PVDF-HFP is a relatively inert fluoropolymer, but processing at high temperatures can release toxic fluorinated byproducts such as HF, so standard polymer safety and ventilation practices are recommended.