Abstract

Polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE) is typically manufactured in a suspension or emulsion polymerization process under relatively mild conditions followed by work-up procedures, primary coagulation, and washing, to remove residual impurities from the polymer. The resulting fluoropolymer is a high molecular weight fluoroplastic with outstanding thermal and chemical resistance properties. Typical use temperatures range from –240 to 200C; contact with halogenated solvents, ethers, and esters should be avoided. The polymer is supplied in either powder or pellet forms, suitable for a variety of plastic melt processing techniques such as compression and injection molding or extrusion processes. The processing temperatures required are usually above 275C, and chrome-plated equipment should be employed. The molded or extruded parts can be further refined by a variety of machining processes. This specialty plastic exhibits a combination of unique physical properties that include ultralow moisture vapor transmission and outgassing, oxygen compatibility, cryogenic temperature capability, electrical insulation, resistance to cold flow, good radiation resistance, and low coefficient of thermal expansion.