polytetrafluoroethylene

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a synthetic fluoropolymer with a linear backbone of carbon atoms fully saturated with fluorine atoms, making it one of the most chemically inert plastics available. It is widely used in applications requiring low friction, high chemical resistance, and thermal stability, including non-stick coatings (cookware, industrial equipment), sealing and gasket materials in chemical processing and petrochemical plants, electrical insulation in wire and cable, and bearing surfaces in machinery exposed to corrosive or extreme environments. Engineers select PTFE where conventional polymers would degrade under harsh chemical exposure, high temperatures, or demanding low-friction requirements—though its relatively low stiffness and creep tendency under sustained load necessitate careful design consideration.