What Does
Fluoroplastic Mean?
Fluoroplastic is the term given to a class of plastics where the hydrogen atoms of the hydrocarbon chains have been replaced with fluorine atoms. This change drastically alters the properties of the plastic, allowing it to be used in several specialty applications.
Because fluoroplastics are highly inert, they are ideal for protecting industrial parts and components, such as washers, seals, gaskets and pump interiors from electrochemical corrosion attack.
Corrosionpedia Explains Fluoroplastic
One of the most popular members of the fluoroplastic family is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), known commercially as Teflon. Other common fluoroplastics include fluoronated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), and polyvinyl fluoride (PVF).
Fluoroplastics possess several unique features that distinguish them from regular plastics. Some of their most beneficial properties include:
- Non-stick characteristics
- Resistance to high temperatures
- Resistance to chemical and solvent attack
- High electrical resistance
These properties allow fluoroplastics to be used in many life-saving and safety-related applications, such as coating protective garments for fire and chemical resistance. They are also commonly used to insulate hidden wires and cables.