Problem

Solution: Chemours Fluoropolymers

Adhesion, Release

Extremely low surface energy in the solid state, thus providing an excellent antistick, nonwetting contact surface. Conversely, when these resins are in a molten state, they become low surface-tension liquids, ideal for high-performance, hot-melt adhesives.

Atmospheric Aging

Extremely resistant to oxidation, surface fouling, discoloration, and embrittlement, as proven by tests conducted in Florida for periods of up to 20 years.

Biodegradation

Inert to enzymic and microbiological attack because the pure polymer does not provide nourishment or porosity for these growths.

Contamination

Except for specialized grades, Chemours fluoropolymers are chemically inert and pure. They generally contain no additives—plasticizers, stabilizers, lubricants, or antioxidants—which could contaminate process fluids.

Corrosion

Resistance to even the most aggressive organic and inorganic chemicals and solvents over a broad temperature range.

Dielectric Instability

High dielectric strength, low dielectric constant, low loss factors, and extremely high specific resistance. Chemours fluoropolymers surpass most materials in their level and stability of dielectric properties over a broad range of environmental conditions.

Flammability

Remarkable resistance to high temperature and flames because of very high melting points and auto-ignition temperatures, as well as exceptional thermal degradation thresholds. Flame propagation characteristics, such as rate of heat release and smoke generation, are very low.

Friction and Wear

One of the lowest coefficients of friction of any solid material. Abrasion resistance is adaptable to demanding environments by using inorganic fillers, such as glass fiber, graphite, and powdered metals.

Heat

Property retention after exposure to temperatures beyond the limit of almost all other thermoplastics and elastomers. Depending on the end-use requirements, these resins are often rated for continuous service at temperatures as high as 260°C (500°F). In certain cases, they can also withstand short excursions to higher temperatures.

Humidity

Extremely hydrophobic and completely resistant to hydrolysis. Good barriers to water permeation; typical properties and dimensional stability remain unchanged even after year-long immersion in water.

Light Instability

One of the lowest refractive indexes. Visual appearance does not change after exposure to light ranging from ultraviolet to infrared.

Low Temperature

Excellent property retention even at cryogenic temperatures. In addition, resistance at these temperatures exceeds that of most other polymers.

Service Life

Outstanding retention of properties after aging, even at high temperatures and in the presence of solvents, oils, oxidizing agents, ultraviolet light, and other environmental agents. Because they do not use any leachable or degradable stabilizing additives, Chemours fluoropolymers offer an important safety advantage when designing products for long service life.