The Technology
Due to their remarkable chemical and physical properties, fluoropolymers find extensive application across diverse industries including chemical, electronic, construction, mechanical, architectural, and automotive, among others.. These unique properties include chemical resistance, weather and thermal stability, inertness to solvents, low dielectric constant, and low moisture absorption. These exceptional properties are attributed to the presence of the fluorine atom, as well to the strong C–F bonds. Despite these advantages, fluoropolymers present certain drawbacks such as high crystallinity, resulting in low solubility in common organic solvents, hydrophobicity and low wettability.
Current methods to functionalize Fluoro-polymers result in either low molecular weight or low content of functional groups.
Using the novel procedure to functionalize Fluoro-polymers by conventional radical polymerization or by emulsion polymerization, using a non-fluorinated surfactant in an aqueous medium for the latter – allows functionalizing from 3% up to over 50% of the polymer chain while keeping high molecular weight. Utilizing non-fluorinated surfactants prevents the formation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The polymers functional groups can be designed to achieve the required properties such as – solubility in different solvents and even water, mechanical properties, adhesion, thermal properties and more.
Advantages
- No PFAS are used or formed in the process
- One pot reaction without hazardous surfactants
- Design Fluoro-polymers to required properties
Applications and Opportunities
- Durable coatings with highly controlled properties for avionics, marine, industrial equipment, home use tools and more
- Adhesives
Business Development Contacts