MICROFIBER REINFORCEMENT OF POLYTETRAFLUOROETHYLENE (TEFLON)
Abstract
An unusual method for the inorganic fiber reinforcement of polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon), either as a bulk polymer or as thin-film lubricating coatings, is the use of microfibers of synthetic boehmite (alumina). The novel features concern (a) the relatively small quantity (usually less than 5%) of microfiber necessary to produce large increases in the mechanical properties of polytetrafluoroethylene (TFE resin), (b) the large increase in cohesive strength resulting from the attractive electrostatic forces between the microfiber and the TFE to which it adsorbs, (c) the stabilizing effect of the microfiber in aqueous dispersions of TFE which reduces coagulation and improves storage life, (d) the thixotropic effects produced by the microfiber which enable the molding or extrusion of TFE resins directly from the aqueous dispersions, and (e) the large improvement in the durability of TFE lubricating coatings by promoting self healing. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 09, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0270607
Entities
People
- V.g. Fitzsimmons
- W.a. Zisman
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory