Halar coatings are high-performance fluoropolymer coatings that have been developed for extreme chemical, thermal and mechanical loads. The particularly smooth surface structure creates durable protective coatings that offer both functional and aesthetic benefits. The low water vapor permeability of the Halar coating prevents the penetration of moisture and ensures reliable protection even under demanding environmental conditions.  

Full FDA and EU approval for food contact confirms unrestricted compatibility in sensitive areas of application.  

What is an E-CTFE coating? Properties and composition

Halar® is the trade name for E-CTFE (ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene), a semi-crystalline fluoropolymer specially developed for coatings with high chemical resistance, mechanical robustness and thermal stability. E-CTFE coatings offer outstanding resistance to aggressive chemicals, low water absorption and excellent electrical insulation. Their exceptional resistance makes them a preferred choice for industrial applications where other coating materials reach their limits. 

The most important properties of E-CTFE (Halar coating) include: 

Chemical resistance 

E-CTFE has excellent resistance to a wide range of aggressive substances, including:  

• Acids (e.g. sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid)  
• Bases (e.g. caustic soda, potassium hydroxide solution)  
• Solvents (e.g. ketones, esters, aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons)  

This high chemical resistance effectively prevents corrosion, which significantly increases the longevity of components.   

Mechanical robustness and wear resistance 

In addition to its chemical resistance, the Halar coating offers high mechanical stability. It is impact-resistant, abrasion-resistant and resistant to mechanical loads. Thanks to the smooth surface structure, dirt particles and deposits adhere less strongly, which makes cleaning easier and improves the efficiency of production processes.  

Electrical insulation properties  

Due to the high electrical insulation properties of E-CTFE, the Halar coating is also used for applications in the field of electronics and electrical engineering. Its low dielectric constant and high dielectric strength make it an ideal material for protective coatings in sensitive technical applications. 

Temperature resistance and flame retardancy  

Halar coatings are designed for a wide temperature range and can permanently withstand temperatures of up to 150 °C without losing their protective properties. They are also self-extinguishing and have a high Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) of approx. 60, which means that they are difficult to burn in oxygen-rich environments.  

ETFE as an alternative 

While ETFE can be used as a replacement for Halar coatings in certain areas, it has slightly different properties due to its different material structure. ETFE has similar protective properties but has a slightly higher temperature resistance. In some industrial applications, it can serve as an alternative to E-CTFE, especially if there are specific requirements for thermal resistance or flexibility. 

Halar coating in use: applications and advantages  

The Halar coating based on E-CTFE is used in numerous industrial sectors due to its excellent chemical, mechanical and thermal properties.   

Industrial applications  

Halar coatings are particularly in demand where extreme conditions prevail and conventional protective measures are not sufficient. The most important areas of application include: 

• Food industry: Thanks to FDA & EU approval, the E-CTFE coating is suitable for direct contact with food.  
• Chemical industry: Coating of reactors, containers, pipelines, mixers, filters and other plant components that come into contact with aggressive chemicals.  
• Apparatus engineering: Protective coating for drying cabinets, glove boxes and filter housings to ensure the functionality and durability of equipment.  
• Medical technology and pharmaceutical industry: Application in clean rooms and laboratory environments where the highest hygiene and cleanliness requirements apply.  
• Semiconductor industry: Protection of exhaust air systems and wet process equipment to prevent contamination and ensure the purity of manufacturing processes.  
• Aerospace: Used for highly specialized coatings of components exposed to extreme temperatures and chemical stresses. 

Requirements for workpieces: Accessibility, wall thicknesses and edge radii  

In order for the coating to adhere optimally and be applied evenly, certain design guidelines must be observed:  

Accessibility of surfaces:  

• All surfaces to be coated must be easily accessible  
• If not given, flange connections or partitions are required  

Minimum radius for corners and edges:  

• A minimum radius of R2 is required as standard  
• Deviations are possible, but must be checked individually  

Uniform wall thicknesses:  

• Large differences in cross-sections can lead to uneven layer formation  
• A homogeneous geometry improves the coating result 

Repairs and reinforcements of Halar-coated surfaces  

Halar coatings are extremely resistant, but repairs may be necessary under certain conditions. These are possible in principle, but must be carried out by specialized personnel. Important aspects are:  

• The damaged area must be precisely localized and assessed.  
• Subsequent repairs are only possible with suitable fusion techniques or special adhesives. 

Complete restoration of the original protective effect is only guaranteed if the repair is carried out correctly. 

Data sheet and technical specifications  

Coating thicknesses:  

The thickness of a Halar coating varies depending on the application and the required protective effect: 

Area of application	Typical layer thickness (µm)
Corrosion protection in the chemical industry	250–1200 µm
Medical technology and semiconductor production	250–800 µm
Protective coating for containers and pipelines	400–1200 µm
Electrical engineering and insulation	250–600 µm

Higher coating thicknesses are preferred in highly corrosive environments or for components subject to high mechanical stress. 

Temperature and pressure resistance: 

• The Halar coating is designed for high temperature and pressure loads:  
• Maximum continuous temperature: up to 150 °C.  
• Melting range: approx. 280-320 °C.  
• High pressure resistance, depending on coating thickness and substrate material.  

Important standards and approvals:  

The Halar coating meets numerous international quality and safety standards:  

• FDA and EU approvals for food contact.  
• FM 4922 approval for cleanroom exhaust systems.  
• High flame resistance (Limiting Oxygen Index LOI: approx. 60).  
• Good electrical insulation in accordance with IEC standards.