Polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) or –(CH2CHF)n– is a polymer material mainly used in the flammability-lowering coatings of airplane interiors and photovoltaic module backsheets.

[3] The resonance stabilization of the propagating intermediate (VF radical) is poor, which often leads to monomer reversals, branching and chain-transfer reactions.

The presence of impurities greatly affects the molecular weight and thermal stability of the product, as the VF radical is highly reactive.

Fluorinated surfactants such as perfluorinated carboxylic acids maintain a high rate of reaction even after 40% conversion, they are thermally and chemically stable and their incorporation does not impair PVF properties.

The processing by melt extrusion depends on the latent solvation of PVF in highly polar solvents and its subsequent coalescence.

It has been found that lower polymerization temperature leads to a decrease in head-to-head linkages and subsequently increase in melting point since the highly regular structures display higher crystallinity.

If PVF degradation happens, the highly reactive HF acid is generated but is quickly absorbed into the surrounding materials and dissipates.

[7] PVF has not caused any skin reaction or toxic effects, although after excessive exposure the fluoride content in urine increased.

Some formulations of the Tedlar films may contain heavy metal compounds, which can be present in dust created by secondary operations (eg sanding).

[7] The main applications of PVF are protective and decorative coatings, thanks to its thermal stability, and general inertness towards chemicals, corrosives and staining agents.