Flourine Technology – Applications

Definition & technologies |Applications & potential |Advantages of fluorination

You can alter the properties of the following materials

The fluorination of plastic surfaces basically involves a chemical reaction between a solid and a gaseous reactant. The nature of the reaction is determined by the concentration, the temperature and the individual chemical properties of the reactants.

It is no surprise, that the result of the fluorination process depends to a great extend on the structure and the chemical composition of the material to be fluorinated. Moreover, the previous processing of the base material, the presence of additives and the type and concentration of pigments and colorants also play an important role.

Automotive industry

Fluorine seals the tank

Air Products is a pioneer in the fluorination of plastic containers. Using an innovative technology for barrier fluorination of plastic fuel tanks (PFTs), Air Products in partnership with its customers has succeeded in reducing the emission of volatile hydrocarbons from the tanks.

Using its fluorination process, Air Products has developed a proven method of fluorination during the blow-moulding process to increase the resistance of PFTs and plastic containers to fuels and solvents.

Construction industry

Innovative designs with concrete – fluorine makes it happen

Concrete compounds strengthened with loose iron elements are traditionally used for foundations, road surfaces and non-load-bearing facade panels.

A new innovation in the concrete industry involves adding fluorinated polypropylene fibres to the concrete. These fibres increase the strength and the shaping possibilities of concrete elements. It also makes the concrete lighter and longer lasting.

Paints, Coatings, inks and the printing industry

Fluorinated coatings that stick to their promises

The activation of surfaces by fluorine can significantly and durably improve the adhesion of paints on critical surfaces. This is a great advantage, for example in the coating of geometrically complex 3D elements.

In addition, formulators can develop their paint systems to achieve optimum adhesion even without primers.

Electronics

Fluorine technology – when contact is crucial

In the semiconductor industry, whatever the application, it is important to achieve optimum contact and durable joints.

Fluorine allows significantly better results, for example in the chemical polishing of high-current semiconductors.

Plastics processing

Fluorine creates active surfaces

Fluorine has many applications in the plastics industry – from hollow bodies and mouldings to fibres, composite materials, films and foam.

Rubber profiles used as guide beads in vehicle windows are a good example.

To allow the window to slide into the guide, manufacturers have to spray or paint the surface of the bead. Fluorine activates these surfaces to ensure that adhesives stick to the rubber better. This process helps to create beads that are long-lasting and slide easily.