PTFE, or Polytetrafluoroethylene, is a fluoropolymer that is resistant to heat and chemicals. PTFE is inert to mostly all chemicals and is considered the slipperiest material in existence. It has an extremely low coefficient of friction, and is used as a coating on cookware, gaskets, seals, and hoses. It is unaffected by virtually all acids and caustics, functioning in environments up to 500°F, and as low as -350°F. Virgin PTFE is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in the food, beverage, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
Also known under the brand name Teflon®, PTFE is a soft fluoropolymer mechanical plastic with exceptional resistance to high temperatures, chemicals, corrosion and stress cracking. PTFE features impressive heat, mechanical toughness, electrical and low friction properties, making it the material of choice for many high heat and low friction applications. PTFE plastic is available in FDA approved, electrical, mechanical, glass-filled and bearing grades.
