Everything Everywhere Daily · Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), known as Teflon, utilizes strong carbon-fluorine bonds to create materials with low friction and high resistance, finding use in everything from cookware to aerospace. However, closely related per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are valued for their stability but persist in the environment and the body as 'forever chemicals,' linked to health concerns.
“One of the best-known fluorinated materials is polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE. But you probably know it better by its brand name, Teflon.”
“Closely related to PTFEs, but very different, are PFAAS or polyfluoroalkyl substances.”
“Certain PFAS chemicals have been linked to health concerns including immune defects, developmental problems, higher cholesterol, and increased risk of some cancers.”