Materials database

Polyvinylidene Fluoride — the melt-processable fluoropolymer. Bridges the gap between PTFE (non-melt-processable) and conventional plastics. Excellent chemical resistance to acids, solvents, and hydrocarbons. Uniquely piezoelectric among polymers. Much stronger than PTFE (UTS 50 vs 25 MPa). Trade names include Kynar (Arkema), Solef/Hylar (Solvay), KF (Kureha). Used for chemical piping/valves/tanks, lithium-ion battery binder, semiconductor wet bench, architectural coatings (Kynar 500), and piezoelectric sensors.

Styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer — AN 20-30% improves chemical resistance, heat resistance, and stiffness vs PS. Transparent (clear). Higher stiffness (E ~3.5 GPa) and HDT than PMMA. Used for housewares, cosmetic packaging, instrument lenses, battery cases, and transparent housings. THE clear engineering-grade styrenic. Also base polymer for ABS (SAN + butadiene rubber).

Silicone rubber (VMQ = Vinyl Methyl Polysiloxane) — THE extreme-temperature elastomer. Usable from -60°C to +230°C continuous (short-term +300°C). Excellent UV/ozone/weathering resistance. Biocompatible (FDA, USP Class VI). Low compression set. Electrically insulating. Lower tensile/tear strength than organic rubbers. Used for seals/gaskets, medical tubing/implants, food-grade components, baby products, automotive ignition boots, and LED/lighting encapsulation.

Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer — bridges the gap between rubber and rigid plastics. Exceptional abrasion resistance, high elongation (300-700%), and good oil/grease resistance. Available in wide hardness range (60 Shore A to 74 Shore D). Ester-based: better oil resistance. Ether-based: better hydrolysis/microbial resistance. Major trade names: Elastollan (BASF), Desmopan/Texin (Covestro), Estane (Lubrizol). Used for seals, hoses, cable jackets, shoe soles, phone cases, wheels/rollers, and 3D printing filament.