Fluoropolymers are a type of plastic resin that is made up of fluorine and carbon bonds. The family of products is modified by manipulating the fluorine link by adding or withdrawing fluorine via other chemical bonds such as chlorine, ethylenes, and other chemical agents. Fluoropolymers are strong, light, and long-lasting. They can also withstand heat, water, salt, and chemicals, and they perform admirably in high-stress situations.
The global Fluoropolymers market accounted for USD 8.1 Billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 13.2 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of around 6.3 % between 2021 and 2028.
Fluoropolymers are polymers with a lot of strong carbon-fluorine linkages in them. Chemical resistance, as well as mechanical and electrical insulation, are all characteristics of fluoropolymers. These characteristics make fluoropolymers appealing as highly durable protective coatings in a variety of architectural coating formulations, particularly those designed for outdoor applications where great weather resistance is required. Because of their chemical and oil resistance, fluoropolymers are particularly popular in the industrial processing industry.
Fluoropolymers are a type of polymer that belongs to the per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemical family (PFAS). The goal of this study is to assess the evidence on fluoropolymer’s environmental and human health effects throughout their life cycle (s). The use and emissions of historical and innovative PFAS as polymer processing aids are intimately tied to the production of some fluoropolymers. The toxicity and negative consequences of fluorinated processing aids on individuals and the environment are important concerns. During the synthesis, processing, usage, and end-of-life treatment of fluoropolymers, a range of additional PFAS, such as monomers and oligomers, are emitted. There are also questions about how fluoropolymers, as well as their associated products and articles, will be disposed of safely at the end of their useful lives. While fluoropolymers are recycled and reused in some industrial trash, there are just a few alternatives for recycling them from consumer products. The evidence examined in this analysis does not support the conclusion that fluoropolymers pose little risk to the environment or human health. Because of the extraordinary persistence of fluoropolymers, the emissions associated with their production, use, and disposal, and the high possibility of human exposure to PFAS, their production and usage should be limited unless absolutely necessary.
COVID-19 impact on Global Fluoropolymers Market
The COVID-19 impacted the fluoropolymers market, due to the lockdown implemented in almost every sector all across the world.The automobile and aerospace sectors were badly impacted because they are significant fluoropolymer clients. Due to a shortage of workers, travel restrictions, and low demand for spare parts, commercial aviation industries are experiencing production disruptions and declining demand. Aircraft manufacturers are capital intensive by nature, which raises cash flow and liquidity difficulties in the short term. The drop in output impacted material sources, and these factors influenced the demand for fluoropolymers. However, due to the Pandemic, there has been a huge increase in the need for fluoropolymers in the medical industry, as there is a strong demand for testing and other health equipment. Fluoropolymers are favored in the medical field due to their dielectric, lubricity, and biocompatibility qualities. As a result, the market for fluoropolymers will expand.
Fluoropolymers come in several forms:
- Granulate
- Melt-processable
- Films
- Paste
- Dispersions
As with anything, there are both positives and negatives to fluoropolymers:
Positive attributes:
- Chemically inert (with few exceptions)
- Broad temperature ranges
- Low friction
- Excellent dielectric properties
- Good thermal insulation
- Good wear properties (with certain additives)
And on the negative side:
- Cost (they can be expensive)
- Processability – grades establish which method is used
- Cold flow with some grades
- High expansion rates
Key Benefits For Stakeholders
- The study includes an in-depth analysis of present and future fluoropolymer market trends, as well as market forecasts.
- This study focuses on the market’s major drivers, opportunities, and restraints, as well as impact analysis for the forecast period.
- Porter’s five forces analysis aids strategy development by analyzing the potential of buyers and suppliers, as well as the competitive landscape of the fluoropolymers business.
- A thorough study of the fluoropolymers market examines the factors that drive and restrict market expansion.
- This report’s qualitative data focuses on market dynamics, trends, and developments.
Fluoropolymers are in high demand for use in industrial coatings because they possess some very desirable qualities. First, fluoropolymers have excellent non-stick properties, as evidenced by their use in non-stick cookware. Fluoropolymers also minimize friction and protect against corrosion. They can also tolerate extremely high temperatures. Insulators, or materials that do not conduct electricity, are fluoropolymers. They also don’t absorb water. This unique combination of characteristics makes them perfect for use in electronics, automobiles, and a variety of other applications.
Fluoropolymer coatings preserve the products to which they are applied, allowing them to endure longer and perform better over time.
For example:
In aeroplanes, fluoropolymer coatings are applied to the electrical insulation. This application safeguards aircraft wiring and decreases the risk of fire. You may relax the next time you travel across the nation, knowing that your plane is safeguarded from fire by fluoropolymer coatings.
Fluoropolymers are employed in a variety of industries. Fluoropolymers are used to cover ink trays, rollers, and frames in printing and packaging facilities. The coating prevents moving parts from sticking to passing objects and makes them easier to clean.
In the food business, fluoropolymer coatings are also commonly employed. Fluoropolymer coatings on molds and trays make it easier to make bread, sweets, cheese, and other items by avoiding adhering and making molds and trays easy to clean.
The automotive industry is a large buyer of fluoropolymer coatings. Fluoropolymer coatings on automotive parts help to reduce friction and corrosion. They’re especially effective in components that are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, such as ball bearings and gears. This program increases the life of your car’s components.
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