Xylan® Coating

No — Xylan and Teflon® are not the same, but they are related. Both are based on PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), a fluoropolymer known for its non-stick and low-friction properties.

Key Differences

• Teflon® is the original brand name for PTFE, developed by Chemours (formerly DuPont). It's commonly associated with non-stick cookware coatings.
• Xylan®, produced by Whitford (a PPG brand), is a formulated coating system that may include PTFE, FEP, or PFA. It combines fluoropolymers with binders, resins, and fillers for tailored industrial or food-grade performance.
• Application Range: Teflon® is mostly used in consumer cookware and select industrial uses. Xylan® is used in industrial machinery, automotive parts, fasteners, and FDA-compliant cookware.

Yes — Xylan® is generally considered safe for non-stick applications, including cookware, when formulated and used according to manufacturer and regulatory guidelines.

Key Facts:

• PTFE-Based Chemistry: Xylan coatings are typically based on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) — the same low-friction, non-stick material used in many commercial cookware products.
• FDA Compliance: Many food-grade Xylan formulations are FDA-compliant and approved for direct food contact in temperatures up to 500°F (260°C).
• Durability Considerations: Like all non-stick coatings, Xylan can degrade if overheated, scratched with metal utensils, or exposed to harsh chemicals.
• Different Grades for Different Uses: Xylan is also used in industrial and automotive applications, so only food-safe variants should be used for cookware.

For food-related use, always confirm that the Xylan coating is specifically formulated and certified for culinary environments.

• PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Known widely as Teflon®, used in non-stick cookware and industrial applications.
• FEP (Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene): Used in wire insulation and chemical processing equipment.
• PFA (Perfluoroalkoxy Alkane): Known for its high temperature and chemical resistance, used in semiconductor manufacturing.
• ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene): Used in architectural applications for its durability and resistance to weathering.
• PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride): Used in the chemical industry for its resistance to solvents and acids​.

Fluoropolymer coatings are specialized plastic coatings made from fluorinated polymers that provide non-stick, low-friction, and highly chemical-resistant surfaces. These coatings form a thin, durable film that protects metals, plastics, and composites in demanding environments.

Key Characteristics:

• Low Surface Energy: Resists sticking, fouling, and buildup.
• Chemical Resistance: Inert to most acids, bases, and solvents.
• Thermal Stability: Performs in high-temperature environments, often up to 500°F (260°C) or higher.
• Lubricity: Reduces friction, even under dry conditions.

Common Fluoropolymer Types:

• PTFE (Teflon®) – Excellent non-stick and temperature resistance.
• FEP & PFA – Offer greater flexibility and chemical resistance.
• ETFE & PVDF – Used for electrical insulation and corrosion resistance.

Applications:

• • Cookware: Non-stick pans and bakeware.
  • Industrial: Pumps, valves, fasteners, and molds.
  • Automotive & Aerospace: Wire coatings, gaskets, and anti-corrosion parts.
  • Electronics: Protective layers on semiconductors and sensors.

Popular fluoropolymer coatings include Xylan®, Teflon®, and other engineered blends designed for food-grade, medical, and industrial performance.