Term: Teflon (PTFE) 

Category: Substrates

Definition: Teflon is a commercial name for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a synthetic fluoropolymer consisting solely of carbons and fluorine atoms. It’s noted for having low surface energy, non-stick abilities, inertness to chemicals, and thermal stability. As a substrate, PTFE has great chemical resistance. As a coating, this material has lubricity, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility.

Structure: Linear chain of repeating tetrafluoroethylene units (–CF₂–CF₂–) forming a dense, crystalline fluorocarbon network.

Source: Synthetic  

Common Uses: 

• Catheters
• Guidewires
• Vascular grafts
• Tubing liners
• Surgical instruments

Related Content and Resources: 

The Use of Hydrophilic Coatings With Other Medical Coatings

Hydrophilic Coatings For Medical Device Substrates Including Metals