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Lookup NU author(s): Matthew Lowe, Dr Matt HopkinsonORCiD, Dr Roly ArmstrongORCiD
This is the final published version of a review published in its final definitive form in 2026. For re-use rights please refer to the publishers terms and conditions.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a polymeric material that displays remarkable thermal and chemical stability. These properties have allowed for the widespread application of PTFE in both everyday and specialist environments but come at a price when the time comes for its disposal. PTFE is highly persistent in landfill, pyrolysis generates low molecular weight ‘forever chemicals’ and forcing conditions are typically required for its mineralization. Recently, these challenges have inspired intense research to discover new methods for the low-temperature degradation of PTFE. In several cases, the fluoride that is liberated can be upcycled through incorporation into fluorinated fine chemicals. This Perspective explores the cutting-edge methods for the degradation of PTFE at low temperature and, in some cases, subsequent chemical upcycling.
Author(s): Lowe ME, Hopkinson MN, Kubicki DJ, Lu E, Armstrong RJ
Publication type: Review
Publication status: Published
Journal: Chemical Science
Year: 2026
Pages: epub ahead of print
Online publication date: 11/06/2026
Acceptance date: 08/06/2026
ISSN (electronic): 2041-6539
URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/D6SC03192G
DOI: 10.1039/D6SC03192G
