PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a fluoropolymer widely used by manufacturers around the world as a non-stick coating for a pan. DuPont™, the company patented PTFE in 1945 under the name Teflon®. Today, PTFE is available in a variety of forms: such as plastic, coating material, membrane and powder. It is sold under several brand names including Teflon®, GoreTex® and Zylon®.