polytetrafluoroteeni

Polytetrafluoroetene, commonly known as PTFE or by its brand name Teflon, is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethene. It is a solid polymer at room temperature, characterized by its high melting point and chemical inertness. PTFE was discovered accidentally by Roy J. Plunkett in 1938 while working for DuPont. Its unique properties, particularly its non-stick surface and resistance to heat and chemicals, led to widespread industrial and commercial applications.

The structure of PTFE consists of a chain of carbon atoms, each bonded to two fluorine atoms. This strong carbon-fluorine bond is responsible for many of its desirable characteristics. The material is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water, and oleophobic, repelling oils and grease. It also exhibits a very low coefficient of friction, making it an excellent lubricant.

PTFE's applications are diverse. It is famously used as a non-stick coating for cookware. Industrially, it is employed in seals, gaskets, bearings, electrical insulation, and chemical-resistant linings due to its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and corrosive substances. It is also found in medical devices and certain types of clothing. While generally considered safe, concerns have been raised regarding the environmental persistence and potential health effects of certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a broader class of chemicals that includes PTFE production byproducts.

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