Poly(vinyl fluoride) (PVF)

Properties and Applications

Polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) is a semicrystalline, transparent to opaque thermoplastic polymer. The degree of crystallinity can vary considerably which greatly affects its mechanial properties. Although only one hydrogen atom is replaced by a fluorine atom in the ethylene repeat unit, PVF shows many interesting properties. It is usually sold as a biaxially oriented film which has excellent weatherability, low gas permeability, and outstanding mechanical properties. It is also inert towards a large number of common chemicals and solvents. However, it is less chemically resistant than poly(tetrafluoro ethylene) (PTFE, Teflon).

PVF films are produced in a large variety of light to dark colors. They have excellent fade resistance, good gloss retention, are printable, and can be easily cleaned and do not stain easily. In fact, PVF film can maintain its original color for many decades.

PVF is mainly used as a surface protecting laminate in the aircraft and architectural industry to improve the chemical and UV resistance, and to provide an easy-to-clean surface. Important film applications include wall coverings, residential and commercial roofing, siding, air-inflated structures, canopies, awnings and stadium domes. PVF is also used as a release film for CFRP composites and for transfer printing and as a back sheet material for solar panels

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