| PTFE resin is a polymer consisting of recurring tetrafluoroethylene monomer units with
the formula: (CF2-CF2)n |
| The maximum molecular weight of this greater than 90°/0 crystallinic TFE Polymer is
about 9x106. PTFE displays a series of unique properties: |
- Nearly universal chemical resistance (exceptions: elemental fluorine, CF3,
molten alkali metals)
- Insoluble in all solvents below 300°C
- High service temperature stability up to 250°C
- Very low adhesiveness
- Very low friction coefficient
- Extremely hydrophobic
- Physiologically inert, contaminant free
- Very good electrical (high resistance) and dielectrical (very low dielectric number and
loss factor) properties
- Nonflammable
- Highly weather resistant (UV resistant)
- Good mechanical properties: tough elastic, easily manufactured
|
| These advantages of PTFE, especially its universal chemical resistance, are the reason
labware and accessories made of PTFE or other fluorocarbon resins are a must in any
laboratory. Its broad service temperature range and its unbreakability are further
advantages of PTFE. |
| Stirrer blades, magnetic stir bars encapsulated in PTFE, joint sleeves, adapters and
boiling accessories are just a few of the items available in PTFE along with standard labware items such as flasks, bottles, beakers, etc. They are
indispensable if the chemical resistance of glass or rare metals does not suffice.
Digestion in boiling hydrofluoric acid or boron trifluoride is possible as well as hot
alkali-hydroxide melts. |
| Labware made of PTFE resists temperatures of -200°C without becoming brittle. The
maximum service temperature is +250°C, (but 300°C is possible) for a short time period.
PTFE is extremely nonadhesive. This is an advantage for working with lacquers, adhesives,
resins and hydroscopic substances. PTFE is biologically inert. Therefore it is used in
many applications in biology, microbiology, medicine, pharmacy and in the food industry. |
| Pure PTFE, because of its chemical resistance and its antiadhesive surface, prevents
any sample contamination by abrasion or etching. Vessels made of PTFE therefore are
absolutely necessary in trace element analysis methods. |
| The production of PTFE-ware is performed using the so called isostatic pressing
process. PTFE powder is filled in forms and isostatically pressed at high pressures. The
pressed parts are sintered at temperatures up to 400°C. The characteristics of the
material are substantially influenced by the pressing and sintering process. Porous PTFE
is made by controlled sintering of powders with defined particle sizes. Stock PTFE in
rods, sheets, etc. are available for customer use. |
