Teflon, a brand name for polymer PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), was discovered by a young researcher named Dr. Roy Plunkett at the DuPont research laboratories in the April of 1938.
The discovery was an accidental one as Plunkett was experimenting with tetrafluoroethylene to produce CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons). He found that the cylinder that initially had 1,000 grams of the gas had 10 grams missing when it was released. He finally discovered that the molecules of the gas strings with carbon atoms attached to fluorine atoms formed a unique polymer.
From food processing to industrial coatings, Teflon has been used for a variety of purposes since its discovery. However, there have been some myths about the polymer. Let’s have a look:
Myth #1: Using Nonstick Teflon Coating Is Not Safe
Truth: There have been various concerns regarding the safety of using polymer coated non-stick pans. The truth is that cooking food in these products is absolutely safe. Not only that, it can also contribute towards a healthy heart by letting people cook with little or no fat.
Myth #2: Nonstick Coatings Tend to Wear Off Easily
Truth: This misconception has absolutely no factual basis. In fact, modern PTFE coated frying pans are designed to last a lifetime.
From resisting chipping to preventing flaking, these products have outstanding durability features.
Myth #3: Teflon and PFOA Are the Same
Truth: PFOA, or Perfluorooctanoic, is often confused with Teflon.
Teflon is a brand for nonstick coatings for cookware and bakeware items. PFOA is a man-made chemical used in the manufacturing of Teflon, but is burned off in the process. However, the production of these nonstick pan items does not include PFOA.
Myth #4: All Nonstick Coatings Perform Similarly
Truth: When users hear the term nonstick, they generally think that these products are same. However, there is a vast difference. Teflon easily outperforms its counterparts, such as ceramic pans and green pans, in virtually all aspects.
Myth #5: Scratching Means End of Life for Teflon
Truth: With Teflon nonstick cookware, scratching does not seem to make much of a difference. As long as the coating is intact, anything can be cooked without worries.
Myth #6: High Levels of Heat Will Have Negative Effects on Teflon
Truth: Teflon frying pans have been specifically designed to stand massive levels of heat. There will be no damage to the finishing of the cookware for heat levels up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
With over 50 years of experience in the field, we at Tef-Cap specialize in heat shrinkable Teflon tubes. We also produce FEP tubing, Polyolefin heat shrink tubing and heat shrink caps among others.