Low friction
Helps one surface slide against another with less resistance.
HIGH PERFORMANCE PLASTICS
PTFE(Polytetrafluoroethylene)
A fluoropolymer known for its low-friction surface and chemical resistance.
Fluoropolymer
THE NAME, EXPLAINED
What is PTFE?
PTFE means Polytetrafluoroethylene.
A fluoropolymer known for its low-friction surface and chemical resistance.
Worth knowing
PTFE does not flow in the melt like ordinary injection-moulding plastics. It needs a dedicated specialist assessment, particularly when filled or contaminated.
WHY MANUFACTURERS CHOOSE IT01 02 03
Properties with a practical purpose.
Chemical resistance
Compatibility depends on the specific chemical, concentration and service conditions.
Heat capability
The appropriate service temperature depends on the exact grade, load and application.
Properties vary with formulation, reinforcement, moisture, processing and service conditions. Use the exact grade data sheet for engineering decisions.
THE NEXT-CYCLE QUESTION
What matters when considering recovery?
Discuss a specialist route separately. Never blend an unidentified fluoropolymer with standard plastic scrap.
PTFE does not flow in the melt like ordinary injection-moulding plastics. It needs a dedicated specialist assessment, particularly when filled or contaminated.
Poly-Cycle can discuss your material information and collection requirements. Inclusion in this guide does not confirm acceptance, a particular recycling method or that every operation takes place at a Poly-Cycle facility.
How assessment and collection workMake the enquiry easier
- Confirm the identity. Keep the manufacturer, trade grade and polymer marking. For an additive or chemical, include the safety data sheet.
- Describe the batch. Give the weight, colour and form: pellets, parts, sheet, film, fibre or another format.
- Explain what else is present. Declare fillers, coatings, metal inserts, other polymers and previous contact with chemicals or other contaminants.
- Agree the route. Share photographs and your collection postcode before arranging a movement.
FROM THE GUIDE TO YOUR MATERIAL
Have PTFE to discuss?
Send the team your grade details, approximate quantity and photographs. We can discuss the information needed for your particular batch.
KEEP EXPLORING
Browse High Performance Plastics Related material guides.
PEI
Polyetherimide
A high-performance, often amber-coloured plastic used in precise components exposed to heat.
Understand this material PEEKPolyether ether ketone
A high-performance thermoplastic used when demanding mechanical, temperature and chemical conditions rule out many ordinary plastics.
Understand this material PPSUPolyphenylsulfone
A tough, high-temperature sulfone polymer used for demanding technical parts.
Understand this materialTechnical references and reading
General material information reviewed 1 November 2026. Manufacturer information supports the material descriptions; recycling enquiry guidance is an editorial synthesis, not a statement of a supplier’s or Poly-Cycle’s acceptance criteria.
Browse this guide under: High Performance Plastics. The original category inventory was informed by RM Group’s plastics directory; explanations have been written for Poly-Cycle.