CTFE- Acronym for chloro-trifluoro-ethylene - Polymer type Thermoplastic.
Outstanding barrier properties to gases, especially water vapor. Non-toxic, weather resistant, no smell or taste, colour is transparent to opaque, thin film is pore-free.
Advantages
May be transparent if cooled rapidly. Melt processable. Higher stiffness than PTFE. Very low vapour transmission properties in film form.
Disadvantages
Very expensive. Lower continuous use temperature than ETFE or PFA (approx. 150°C/302°F). Higher dissipation factor than PTFE. Inferior chemicalresistancetoPTFE.Attacked by some halogenated hydrocarbons, ethers and esters.CTFE is not resistant to chlorosulfonic acid.
Use of CTFE is now limited due to competition from other, more recently developed, melt processable polymers, e.g. FEP, PFA, ECTFE & ETFE
Applications -Chemically resistant O rings, gaskets, seals and transparent windows. Cryogenic applications. As a film for packaging sensitive electronics and drugs.
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PTFE Background information - This material exhibits a unique combination of heat resistance and low friction together with outstanding chemical and good electrical properties. Continuous use temperature range of plus or minus 260deg C, no moisture absorption, high arc resistance, and is self lubricating with a low coefficient of friction. Many grades available.