Question

Why is Teflon used as a tape for sealing purposes?

Answer 1

Hint: Teflon is used to create a non-reactive and non-stick surface to make the material. It is used to make tapes which are leak free, suitable sealant. It is an indestructible chemical with the lowest coefficient of friction.

Complete step-by-step answer:
Teflon is the plastic used as a non-stick coating for pans and cookware. It is very non-reactive and used in containers and pipework for reactive chemicals. It has a high melting point and excellent dielectric properties. Because of its chemical inertness, it cannot be cross linked like an elastomer.
Teflon is a brand name used for a chemical coating, polytetrafuoroethylene(PTFE). It is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, having properties such as hydrophobic, non-wetting, temperature resistance and high density. Due to its non-stick properties and incredible versatility it has a wide variety of applications.
The tape used for sealing purposes is also referred to as plumber’s tape is a highly versatile thread sealant and lubricating material. It is usually sold pre-cut to a range of specified width on small rolls. It has extremely low fiction and is water repellent, so used for plumbing and ductwork applications.
It is chemically inert and does not react with other elements. It has robust pressure resistance and high temperature performance. It is malleable and non-hardening, so used for compression joints, radiator valves, taps and other fittings. The tape is oil and petrol resistant and used in auto-motive applications.
It can help seal and tighten the joint from the inside, providing extra protection against the risk of future leakage. Hence, Teflon is used as a tape for sealing purposes.

Note: Teflon has some disadvantages, for example, on overheating, it releases mild toxic fumes. Its abrasion resistance is not that good and so can’t be used for everything. It is not a low-cost polymer and it is not easy to produce it in high mass. It cannot be cemented and changes shape under pressure.