What is teflon?

Teflon is a type of plastic used to make frying pans and cookware that is heatproof, nonstick and low-fat. It is made with a chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE.

The material was first discovered in 1938 by a DuPont chemist named Roy Plunkett as he worked on developing a new chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant. The material was a fluorinated plastic that could withstand pressure and heat.

It is not only heatproof, but also chemical, electrical and thermal resistant. In fact, it is one of the most chemically resistant materials available.

During World War II, PTFE was used to create gaskets and liners that were able to resist the extreme corrosive action of uranium hexafluoride. This chemical was needed for the construction of atomic bombs.

How Does Teflon Get Its Nonstick Surface?

If you have ever used nonstick cookware, then you know that the coating consists of two layers. A primer coat of Teflon seeps into the nooks and crannies of metal, while a finishing layer of the plastic bonds to the prepared pan without difficulty.

While it is not a known carcinogen, it can release fumes when heated above 300 degrees Celsius or 570 degrees Fahrenheit. These fumes can be dangerous to your health, especially if you have respiratory or other health conditions. The risk of these fumes increases if you are using high-temperature heating equipment in your kitchen or other areas that are close to the stove or oven.