Teflon: strong bonds increase chemical stability

If strong bonds hold the monomers together, the polymer can withstand disruptive forces better, such as chemical attacks and high temperatures.

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), also called Teflon^TM, is an example of a polymer with strong bonds. It's based on a simple monomer, C₂F₄, but the C-F bond is one of the strongest single-bonds known in chemistry!

In addition to having strong bonds, an even distribution of fluorine atoms allows for a uniform hydrophobic (i.e., repels water) covering around the polymer chains. Combined, these chemical properties make Teflon^TM great for covering cooking pans and making them non-stick!

Figure 1: The non-stick coating on frying pans consists of Teflon^TM.