High‑transparency, ultra‑low‑refractive‑index perfluorinated copolymers for optical coatings, semiconductor devices, biochips, and gas separation membranes – available from grams to kilograms, with custom R&D support J&K Scientific, in collaboration with the research group of Dr. Dayang Yu at Zhejiang University – Quzhou Institute, offers PF160 and PF235 –Poly[4,5-difluoro-2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dioxole-co-tetrafluoroethylene].These materials are engineered as a drop‑in replacement for Teflon™ AF1600 and AF2400, delivering identical or superior optical, thermal, dielectric, and surface properties, while providing unmatched cost advantages and supply chain security in an era of tightening European regulations on fluorinated substances.
Why PF160/PF235 are Essential for High-Performance Optical and Electronic Applications
Amorphous fluoropolymers are indispensable in applications where crystalline scattering, high refractive index, or limited thermal stability would otherwise compromise device performance. Unlike semi‑crystalline PTFE or FEP, the cyclic dioxole‑co‑TFE structure of PF160/PF235 completely suppresses crystallinity, enabling:
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Superior optical clarity (≥95% transmission from deep‑UV to visible) with no haze or birefringence.
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Ultra‑low refractive index (1.29–1.34) – among the lowest of all known transparent polymers – drastically reducing Fresnel reflection at interfaces.
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High glass transition temperatures (160°C for PF160, 240°C for PF235) that making it suitable for high‑temperature processing and demanding environments.
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Excellent hydrophobicity and oleophobicity (water contact angle ≥110°) for anti‑fouling and easy‑release surfaces.
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Low dielectric constant (1.89–1.95) and ultra‑low dissipation factor, preserving signal integrity in high‑frequency communication.
These properties are not just incremental improvements; they enable entirely new device architectures in deep‑UV lithography, high‑speed optoelectronics, and next‑generation biochips – where conventional polymers fail.
PF160/PF235 vs. Teflon™ AF: A True Performance Match
| Property | PF160 / PF235 | Teflon™ AF1600 / AF2400 |
| Refractive index (at 589 nm) | 1.29 – 1.34 | 1.29 – 1.34 |
| UV‑visible transmittance (250–800 nm) | ≥95% | ≥95% |
| Glass transition temperature (Tg) | 160±5°C (PF160) / 240±5°C (PF235), customizable | 160±5°C / 240±5°C (fixed) |
| Static water contact angle | ≥110° | ≥110° |
| Dielectric constant (1 MHz) | 1.89 – 1.95 | ~1.93 (AF1600) |
| Thermal decomposition onset (TGA, N2) | >430°C | >430°C |
| Intrinsic viscosity (mL/g) – molecular weight indicator | 94±5 | 94±5 |
| Amorphous character | Fully amorphous | Fully amorphous |
All PF160/PF235 batches are SGS‑certified for purity and consistency, ensuring batch‑to‑batch reproducibility that meets the stringent demands of semiconductor and optical manufacturing.
Key Application Areas – Detailed
1. Anti‑Reflective (AR) Coatings for Deep‑UV and Visible Optics
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Radar domes, DUV lithography optics, pellicle films (photomasks), silicon wafer windows – the ultra‑low refractive index of PF160/PF235, combined with ≥95% transmission, can reduce Fresnel reflection to <1% per surface when properly designed as single‑layer or multilayer stacks.
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Compatibility with spin‑coating, dip‑coating, and spray‑coating allows easy integration into existing fabrication lines.
2. Anti‑Fouling and Release Layers for Bio‑ and Microfluidic Devices
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Gene‑sequencing chips, microfluidic channels, implantable sensors – the non‑stick surface (water contact angle ≥110°) effectively resists adsorption of proteins, cells, lipids, and organic contaminants, improving assay accuracy and device lifetime.
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In precision moulding (e.g., LED lens manufacturing), PF235’s high Tg and release properties enable clean demoulding without release agents, reducing defects.
3. Low‑k Dielectric Cladding and Insulation for High‑Frequency Electronics
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Fibre‑optic cladding, 5G/6G waveguide coatings, high‑speed interconnect insulation – the dielectric constant of 1.89–1.95 and exceptionally low loss tangent minimise signal attenuation and crosstalk at millimetre‑wave frequencies.
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The amorphous nature prevents anisotropic dielectric behaviour, ensuring consistent performance irrespective of film orientation.
4. Gas Separation Membranes
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The rigid, microporous‑like free volume of these amorphous fluoropolymers imparts high selectivity for gas pairs such as O₂/N₂, CO₂/CH₄, and perfluorinated compound recovery. PF160 and PF235 have been studied for their permeability‑selectivity trade‑off, with results published in peer‑reviewed journals (see references).
5. Optical Waveguide Cladding and Interlayer Dielectrics
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The low refractive index makes PF160/PF235 ideal cladding materials for polymer optical waveguides, where index contrast with the core (e.g., ~1.5) determines mode confinement. Their thermal stability allows soldering reflow processes.
Flexible Supply Forms – Ready for Your Process
We offer three standard product forms, all in stock for immediate shipment:
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PF160 resin pellets – high‑purity solid for custom dissolution or compounding.
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PF235 resin pellets – high‑Tg version for elevated‑temperature applications.
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PF160 3 wt% solution in perfluoropolyether (PFPE) – a ready‑to‑use coating formulation that eliminates the hazardous and time‑consuming dissolution step, compatible with spin, dip, and spray coating.
Additionally, we can supply custom concentrations (e.g., 1–3%) upon request, and tailored molecular weights (via controlled polymerisation) to match your specific rheological and film‑formation requirements.
Cost and Supply Chain Advantage – Mitigating EU Restriction Risks
The European Union is progressively restricting the use of per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under REACH and other regulatory frameworks. This has led to uncertain availability, extended lead times, and significant price volatility for imported fluoropolymers such as Teflon™ AF.
Our PF160/PF235 series is fully synthesised in China, with independent intellectual property and a domestic supply chain covering all raw materials, intermediates, and final products. This ensures:
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Uninterrupted availability regardless of EU policy changes or trade disputes.
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Stable pricing – not subject to import tariffs, currency fluctuations, or overseas manufacturing disruptions.
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Shorter lead times – local warehousing and just‑in‑time delivery for both R&D grams and production kilograms.
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Regulatory compliance – our products are fully registered for domestic use, and we provide all necessary documentation for global customers seeking alternative sources.
By switching to PF160/PF235, you not only achieve equivalent performance but also de‑risk your supply chain and gain negotiating power against traditional suppliers.
Custom R&D Services – From Gram‑Scale Screening to Kilogram‑Scale Validation
We understand that each application has unique requirements. Our team offers custom development services covering:
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Formulation optimisation – adjusting solvent systems, additives, or copolymer composition for specific substrates (glass, silicon, metal, flexible films).
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Coating process development – guidance on spin speed, thermal curing profiles, and thickness control.
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Scale‑up support – from 1‑gram feasibility samples to 1‑kg pilot batches and beyond, with full analytical characterisation (NMR, DSC, TGA, UV‑Vis, contact angle, etc.).
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Derivatisation – if you need functionalised versions (e.g., with reactive end‑groups for crosslinking), our synthesis team can explore feasible routes.
All custom work is backed by the expertise of Dr. Yu’s group, whose publications and patents demonstrate deep understanding of structure‑property relationships in these copolymers.
Featured Product List
| Product Name | CAS No. | J&K Product ID |
| Poly[4,5-difluoro-2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dioxole-co-tetrafl uoroethylene], 99%, Intrinsic viscosity: 95±5 mL/g (high intrinsic viscosity customizable), glass transition temperature: 163±2 °C, transparency≥95% |
37626-13-4 | 412056 |
| Poly[4,5-difluoro-2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dioxole-co-tetrafluoroethylene](3wt%)/Perfluoropolyethers(97wt%), 99% |
/ | 921272 |
| Poly[4,5-difluoro-2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dioxole-co-tetrafl uoroethylene], 99%, Intrinsic viscosity: 100±5 mL/g (high intrinsic viscosity customizable), glass transition temperature: 240±2 °C, transparency≥95% |
37626-13-4 | 932915 |
For bulk quantities (>1 kg) or custom concentrations, please contact our sales team for a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Is PF160/PF235 chemically identical to Teflon™ AF?
They are the same copolymer (PDD‑TFE) with comparable molecular weight and comonomer ratio. Our products are designed as functional equivalents, and our characterisation data (NMR, DSC, UV) confirm match to the original.
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Can I use the same processing conditions as for Teflon™ AF?
Yes. For the resin pellets, dissolution in fluorinated solvents (e.g., FC‑40) follows similar protocols. The 3 wt% solution is ready for spin/dip/spray without modification.
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What solvents are compatible?
Typical solvents include perfluoroheptane, hexafluorobenzene, FC-40 and perfluoropolyether. We can recommend specific solvents for your coating method.
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How do I store the resin and solution?
Resin pellets should be kept in a dry, cool place away from UV light. The solution should be stored in sealed containers under inert atmosphere to prevent solvent evaporation or contamination.
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What is shelf life?
Resin is stable indefinitely under proper storage. The solution has a minimum shelf life of 12 months when stored at room temperature in the original sealed container.
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Can I get larger quantities than 1 kg?
Yes. We support multi‑kilogram production. Please inquire for pricing and delivery schedules.
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How does the EU PFAS restriction affect your supply?
Our entire supply chain is domestic, so we are not affected by EU regulations. We continue to manufacture and ship without interruption.
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Do you provide technical datasheets and safety information?
Yes. Each shipment includes a Certificate of Analysis (CoA), Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and batch‑specific test reports (Tg, viscosity, transmittance, etc.).
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Can you customise the Tg (e.g., 180°C or 220°C)?
We offer limited customisation of the comonomer ratio to shift Tg within a range. Please contact us with your target Tg and we will evaluate feasibility.
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Are these materials suitable for flexible substrates?
Yes. Their amorphous nature allows formation of thin, flexible films with good adhesion to various substrates after appropriate surface treatment.
Request Samples, Quotations, or Custom Synthesis
Contact J&K Scientific today to:
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Order standard products online or via email.
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Send your target structure for custom derivative synthesis – our team will assess synthetic feasibility, timeline, and cost.
艳 李
