Fluorine is the atom that gives the properties of a low refractive index and low surface energy (the hydrophobic, non-stickiness of the surface). Fluorination is the thing that makes AL-2233 so much like Teflon. There are not many things that have much affinity for fluorine, so the solvent for AL-2233 has to be fluorinated too. But the solvent is very volatile and really serves as the vehicle to deliver the fluorinated polymer to the surface being coated.
AL-2233 can be applied by spin coating, spraying, dipping, etc. When the solvent evaporates it leaves behind the fluorinated polymer layer. Final layer thicknesses are easily controlled by adjusting the concentration of the fluorinated polymer in the solvent to begin with.
READ THE BLOG: It’s a lot like Teflon
Additional resources from the FOC team include:
- Category Resource:
- View the Glossary, Acronyms, Military Specifications for Connectors
- Q&A Resource: email technical questions to AskFOC@focenter.com
Have questions about this FOC Tip?
Contact FOC with questions at (800) 473-4237 / 508-992-6464 or email: FiberOpticCenter@focenter.com and we will respond ASAP.
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