Nano Coatings

The ABCs of fluoropolymer Nano Coatings

 

What is a fluoropolymer coating?

A fluoropolymer coating is a material comprised of fluorocarbons and characterized by carbon-fluorine bonds.

Chemically inert, fluorocarbons are not susceptible to Van der Waals force. This means they are hydrophobic, non-stick and friction reducing.

Also, due to their fluorine bonds, fluoropolymer coatings demonstrate a high level of durability as well as resistance to acids, bases and most solvents.

What are nano coatings?

They are typically applied at a few microns. Some coatings are applied at 0.25um or even less.

What are the typical properties of fluoropolymer’s?

They can include:

  • Being highly hydrophobic (water repellent)
  • Having a high moisture barrier
  • Being highly oleophobic (oil repellent)
  • Having a high chemical resistance
  • Having a high lubricity (low friction)
  • Having high dielectric properties
  • Suitable for sterilisation
  • Providing high corrosion resistance
  • Providing good abrasion / wear resistance

Note, not all of the fluoropolymer coatings have all of the above properties. But, some of the coatings can in fact have almost all of the properties.


What sectors are fluoropolymer nano coatings being used?

Nano-coatings are used in almost all industrial sectors.

They include:

  • Aviation
  • Aerospace
  • Defense
  • Automotive
  • Industrial
  • Oil & Gas
  • Electronics
  • Medical/Pharmaceutical
  • Optics
  • Telecommunications
  • White goods / Commercial

What products are actually coated in fluoropolymer nano coatings?

Products coated with nano coatings include:

  • Circuit boards
  • Mobile phones
  • Tablets
  • Automotive parts (gears, rotors, pistons)
  • Commercial bake-ware
  • Filters, filter housing
  • Glassware, labware
  • Machine parts/components
  • Printing equipment
  • Sintered metal parts
  • Catheters
  • Guidewires
  • Fasteners
  • Screen, mesh (metal/synthetic)
  • Filter media (cloth, synthetic)
  • O-rings, gaskets, seals
  • Silicone rubber
  • Solenoid, springs, coils