Some entire industries depend on fluoropolymers, such as the semiconductor industry. Fluoropolymers are the only material that can hold and transport the chemicals used in the semiconductor manufacturing process. Without them, the electronic equipment we depend on – like personal computers and cellular phones – could not be produced.
Products made with fluoropolymers reduce risks and protect us from harm.
Protecting firefighters. Fluoropolymers are essential in the manufacture of durable fire-retardant fabrics that help shed water, resist abrasion and retain insulation, which in turn diminish the chance for burns.
Protecting aircraft crew and passengers. The risk of fire from insulation materials in aircraft is significantly reduced by the use of fluoropolymer-based composites for wiring insulation.
Protecting factory workers. Protective garments made of nylon or polyester coated with chemically resistant polymers (such as polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE, a type of fluoropolymer) protect workers from corrosive, alkaline or acidic chemicals.
Protecting office workers. The risk of fire in office buildings is reduced due to fluoropolymers used to insulate wire and cable placed in the air space between a suspended ceiling and the structural floor above. This space is generally used for low-voltage data-transmission materials, such as phone cables, computer wire and cables, coaxial cable and hookup wire. Flame-resistant fluoropolymers do not interfere with signal transmission and are good insulators of low-voltage electricity.
Ensuring electrical safety. The same electrical and safety qualities that make fluoropolymers useful for data transmission cables also increase electrical safety in cable connectors, cable jacketing, circuit breakers, heat-trace cable, leak-trace cable, stand-off insulators and tubing.