Polymer Fume Fever

What Does Polymer Fume Fever Mean?

Polymer fume fever is a flu-like illness caused by exposure to fluoropolymer (Teflon) fumes. When polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is heated to high temperatures, fumes are released that may be inhaled. Teflon is often used in corrosion-resistant industrial coatings. The effects of polymer fume fever are often heat dependent, and are most likely to occur when Teflon is heated above 842°F (450°C).

Polymer fume fever is also known as fluoropolymer fever or Teflon flu.

Corrosionpedia Explains Polymer Fume Fever

When Teflon is heated, the resulting fumes can produce flu-like symptoms in those who are exposed. Employees working in environments with heated Teflon should be provided with personal protective equipment.

Victims of polymer fume fever will often experience:

• Chills
• Headaches
• Fever
• Chest tightness
• Mild cough

Onset occurs about four to eight hours after exposure. In some cases, severe toxic effects can occur, including pulmonary edema, pneumonitis and death.