PVDF - Polyvinylidene-fluoride
Polyvinylidene-fluoride (abbreviated PVDF) is a highly non-reactive and pure thermoplastic fluoropolymer. It is used generally in applications requiring the highest purity, strength, and resistance to solvents, acids, bases and heat and low smoke generation during a fire event. Compared to other fluoropolymers, it has an easier melt process because of its relatively low melting point of around 177°C. Common Trade name is Kynar.
It has a low density (1.78) and low cost compared to the other fluoropolymers. It is available as piping products, sheet, tubing, films, plate and an insulator for wire. It can be injected, molded or welded and is commonly used in the chemical, semiconductor, medical and defense industries, as well as in lithium ion batteries. PVDF is used for specialty fishing line sold as fluorocarbon.
Benefits & Liabilities of PVDF
Benefits:
- Good heat resistance
- Good resistance to most chemicals and solvents
- High strength and stiffness
- Excellent resistance to UV
- Piezoelectric properties
- Can be sterilized
- Easily processed compared to other fluoropolymers
- Intrinsically flame retardant
- Inherent high puirity
Liabilities:
- High cost
- Attacked by ketones and strong bases
- Fair dimensional stability.
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