Scientists recycle Teflon into a chemical that strengthens teeth

SCIENTISTS at Newcastle and Birmingham universities have discovered a “simple and eco-friendly” way to turn Teflon into a vital chemical that helps our teeth, without releasing “forever chemicals” into the atmosphere.

- SAM VOLPE Reporter [e-mail]

Teflon is a branded material prized for its durability and used, for example, in nonstick pans.

However it has been, until now, very difficult to recycle. It could be broken down by burning - but not without releasing “forever chemicals” with dangerous implications for the environment.

Now, researchers at Newcastle University and the University of Birmingham have found that it can be broken down “using only sodium metal and mechanical energy - movement by shaking”.

This produces sodium fluoride - which can be used for toothpastes and is routinely added to drinking water.

The findings have been published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS).