This reaction turns Teflon into toothpaste’s key ingredient

Transforming Teflon into Toothpaste's Key Ingredient

A reaction that grinds PTFE with chunks of sodium metal creates sodium fluoride in a solvent-free process, aiming to reduce landfill waste.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known by its brand name Teflon, is a chemical innovation that has become a societal concern due to its unreactive nature and high heat resistance.

Initially, PTFE was used to prevent uranium hexafluoride leaks during the Manhattan Project.

Grinding PTFE with chunks of sodium metal creates sodium fluoride in a solvent-free reaction that aims to avoid landfills.

Author's summary: Teflon is transformed into toothpaste's key ingredient through a solvent-free reaction.

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C&EN C&EN — 2025-10-27

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