When most people hear the word “teflon” they automatically think of non-stick cookware, but this is only one use for the polymer that is also a trademark of The Chemours Company (a chemist company spin off from DuPont). PTFE, which stands for polytetrafluoroethylene, was first discovered serendipitously in 1938 by a chemist working on the Manhattan Project. It was used during World War II as a protective coating for metal equipment that handled radioactive materials.

Since teflon is so durable and resistant to heat, water, chemicals, corrosion and wear and tear it has a wide variety of uses in many different industries. It has a high melting point and stability at very low temperatures, an inert characteristic meaning it does not react with most other chemicals, insulating properties, and a slick surface that reduces friction.

The aerospace industry often requires advanced materials that can withstand the extreme conditions of planes and spacecraft. Teflon wire coatings are commonly used in aircraft and spacecraft to reduce the friction between mechanical components.

In cars and motorcycles teflon is found in the brake pads, axels, fasteners, gaskets, and exhaust systems to reduce wear and tear from heat and chemical interaction. It is also used in electronic writing and drawing tablets and touchpads to reduce friction between the stylus and the surface.

PTFE is created using 4 ingredients which include fluorspar, hydrofluoric acid, chloroform and trichloromethane. These ingredients are incredibly dangerous to transport which is why all production of PTFE happens on-site where it can be made into a powder that is then applied to surfaces for use. PFOA, which was the main ingredient that put teflon on the wellness angry heat map, has been phased out but other PFCs are still found in water resistant outerwear and stain-resistant carpeting, fast food microwave bags, and in some personal care products like tampons.