Paper Tableware Oil Repellent: Fluorinated vs. Non-Fluorinated Options

 Did you ever use paper plates or cups at a picnic or party? They are also super convenient, but they can also absorb oil or other liquids. This causes them to become soggy and cease to function, which is not cool when you want mealtime enjoyment. That’s where "fluorinated" paper plates and cups are there to help! Fluorinated paper tableware is specially coated to resist oil and liquids, ensuring strength and durability. For this reason, you need not worry about spills from food or drinks; they are not going to mess with your environment.

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What is Fluorinated Paper?

So, what is fluorinated paper, anyway? Well to make fluorinated paper a special chemical is added to it named "fluorocarbon. " This chemical goes into the process of making the paper. When applied to the paper, it forms a coating on the surface that repels fluids and oils, thus making it more resistant to absorption. This is the reason why people actually love using fluorinated paper plates and cups when going for picnics, parties, and other activities. They are a good option because they don't get soggy easily so that everyone can eat over their meals without worrying about mess.

Here's What You Need to Know About Non-Fluorinated Tableware

And while fluorinated paper is often better than plastic tableware, some people find the fluorocarbon chemical to be problematic. Research has indicated that this chemical can accumulate over time in the environment. That matters because it may not be good for our health, either. Because of these worries, some companies have opted for non-fluorinated paper tableware instead. Instead, user-friendly (and, it must be said, lovable) — designed for ease of eating with — this C6 oil repellent type of tableware is produced without the fluorocarbon chemical that has become a human and planetary concern.

Some people fancy food more on non-fluorinated plates. This is why these plates do not leave that plastic-like taste that some fluorinated tableware can leave behind. So if you prefer to be able to actually taste your food, a non-fluorinated option is preferable.

The Oil-Breaking Properties of Paper Tableware

Have you ever thought, “how can paper plates and cups be water and oil resistant? That is all due to a process known as "sizing. ” Sizing is an added step that treats the paper with a chemical compound to strengthen it and increase liquid resistance.

In the case of fluorinated paper tableware, they introduce the fluorocarbon while sizing the paper. This pulp molding oil repellent chemical forms a barrier preventing oils and fluids from penetrating paper. Meanwhile, for non-fluorinated paper tableware, another type of chemical has been used during sizing with the same effect. This means each type of tableware can shrug off spills, but they do so in different ways.

Which Is Better for the Environment?

Non-fluorinated paper tableware is often considered a better choice in terms of environmental friendliness. This is also because it does not require the same fluoride  filth material, they are more sustainableMarΝΒ chem71. It should be noted that tableware not made with fluorinated material is also compostable or recyclable, reducing waste and protecting our planet further.

When we talk about strength and durability, fluorinated paper tableware usually prevails. That fluorocarbon (or similar) coating is part of what makes this paper tough enough to stand up to spills and accidents. That would mean that fluorinated paper tableware could be used longer, contributing to waste — not waste — reduction. So, while there are non-fluorinated options that are better for the environment, fluorinated ones can be more durable.

Two Types Cost Differences

Now, let’s talk about cost. Fluorinated paper tableware is generally more expensive than its non-fluorinated counterparts. That's because it is more complex to produce fluorinated paper and the need for specific chemicals and equipment. For small companies, the 100% non-fluorine oil repellent price difference may not seem like a huge deal, but it can definitely add up, particularly for large events or over a long period of time.

It’s also worth considering the environmental impact. Also, non-fluorinated paper tableware may seem cheaper at first, but its harmful impacts on the environment can end up costing more in the long run. They want businesses that care about the earth to pay a little more now for tableware options that are safer.

In conclusion, fluorinated and non-fluorinated paper tableware has good points and bad points. Which one you use really depends on what you like and what matters to you. At Chem-Plus, so many tableware options are there that you can consider which will work best for you based on safety, cost, and durability.