Quartz countertops have become incredibly popular in recent years as a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance option for kitchens and bathrooms. One question that often comes up regarding quartz countertops is whether they contain PTFE, also known as Teflon. Here is a detailed look at whether PTFE is present in quartz countertops.
What is PTFE?
PTFE, or polytetrafluoroethylene, is a synthetic fluoropolymer best known by the brand name Teflon. PTFE has some useful properties such as:
- Extremely low coefficient of friction, making it non-stick
- Heat resistance up to 500°F
- Chemical inertness and resistance to corrosion
- UV resistance and weather resistance
- Low dielectric constant
These properties make PTFE useful for non-stick cookware coatings, plumbers tape, fabric protectors, electrical insulation, and more.
However, PTFE also has some health and environmental concerns. When overheated, it can degrade into toxic fumes and chemicals. The manufacturing process of PTFE also uses some toxic chemicals. For these reasons, there has been a desire to reduce the use of PTFE in consumer products when possible.
Composition of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are engineered stone made from a combination of ground natural quartz crystals and polymer resins. A typical composition is:
- 90-94% ground quartz
- 6-10% polymer resins (epoxy or polyester)
- Pigments for color
The resins act as a binder to hold the quartz particles together. Different brands use various proprietary blends of resins to achieve desired performance and aesthetics.
Does Quartz Contain PTFE?
After reviewing the composition of quartz countertops, it is clear they do not actually contain any PTFE/Teflon. The polymer resins used are not PTFE, but rather epoxy or polyester binders.
PTFE is not necessary in the production of quartz countertops, as the quartz particles and polymer resins provide a durable, scratch-resistant, non-porous surface without relying on PTFE.
Why the Confusion Over PTFE in Quartz?
Despite quartz countertops not containing PTFE, there still persists some confusion over this topic. Here are some potential reasons for the misconception:
- PTFE and quartz are both marketed as “non-stick” materials, causing confusion between the two.
- Some quartz manufacturers apply a PTFE sealer to the surface of slabs during polishing. This PTFE later wears off with regular use.
- Consumers may assume that the “polymer resins” in quartz refer specifically to PTFE, instead of epoxy/polyester binders.
- Early quartz products in the 1990s did use some PTFE in their resin formulas, but modern quartz does not.
- Quartz is sometimes incorrectly likened to “solid surface” countertops that can contain PTFE. But quartz and solid surface materials are very different.
Should You Be Concerned About PTFE in Quartz?
Given that quartz countertops do not actually contain PTFE, there is no reason for health or environmental concerns regarding PTFE exposure from quartz countertops. Any confusion over PTFE in quartz is simply a misconception, as manufacturers have moved away from using PTFE.
Quartz countertops remain one of the most popular options for low-maintenance, beautiful, durable, non-porous, scratch-resistant countertops perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. And with no PTFE/Teflon present, they avoid any potential risks associated with PTFE exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does all quartz contain PTFE?
No, PTFE is not used in the manufacture of modern quartz slabs. Some early quartz products contained minor amounts of PTFE, but today’s engineered quartz uses only quartz crystals and epoxy/polyester resins.
Why is PTFE added to some products?
PTFE is added to provide non-stick, anti-friction, anti-corrosion, and weatherproofing properties. However, with quartz countertops these properties are not needed so PTFE is avoided.
Should I be worried about PTFE release from quartz?
There is no risk of PTFE release or off-gassing from quartz countertops because they do not contain PTFE. You can be assured quartz will not expose you to this chemical.
Can quartz emit harmful VOCs?
Quartz itself does not release VOCs, but some consumers have concerns over VOCs from adhesives and sealants used in quartz installation. Using low-VOC products will minimize exposure to VOCs.
Does polishing and sealing quartz add PTFE?
Some quartz manufacturers apply a temporary PTFE polish or sealer before shipping slabs. However, this wears away with regular use after installation. Permanent PTFE coatings are not applied.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops remain a fantastic option for kitchen and bathroom surfaces. They provide durability, scratch-resistance, stain-resistance, and sleek style without relying on PTFE/Teflon like early engineered quartz products did. Leading brands use only natural quartz crystals and safe polymer resins to craft quartz countertops that are free of PTFE. Consumers can rest assured that quartz counters will not expose them to this chemical, despite some lingering misconceptions. With the right sealing and maintenance, quartz makes for an excellent long-lasting, low-maintenance countertop.