What are the differences between PTFE and ETFE tubing (0.5-1 mm inner diameter) when used in protein chromatography purifications? Both polymers are used to make small diameter transparent tubings to connect to peristaltic pumps and more complex equipment. Which one is better? ETFE seems to be supplied somewhat more often for this purpose (e.g. by Cytiva).
PTFE and ETFE are both fluoropolymer materials commonly used in protein chromatography due to their chemical resistance and biocompatibility. The main differences between the two include:
In terms of which one is better, it depends on the specific needs of the application. PTFE may be the better choice for applications requiring high chemical resistance and durability, while ETFE may be the better choice for applications where transparency is important.
I will say, both PTFE and ETFE have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two will depend on the specific requirements of the application.
Plastics have ability to adsorb protein molecules on them, I would recommend to check their hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity , and interaction ability with proteins.
The one with least protein adsorption is best material to choose for protein chromatography.
So far I got an impression that PTFE is better in most aspects (inertness, temperature, lowest friction, price) apart from the burst pressure. So, ETFE is preferrable for HPLC while PTFE could be a default choice for any lower pressure applications.
Both are transparent (virgin PTFE is more close to translucent; there are white PTFE options on the market which have a titanium dioxide additive for whiteness).
https://www.bgb-info.com/home.php?cat=9743
https://www.bgb-info.com/home.php?cat=9753
https://lectromec.com/etfe-vs-xl-etfe-vs-ptfe-whats-best-for-wire-circuit-protection/
Kandluri Geethika : PTFE is neither hydro- nor lipophilic, it is fluorophilic. Fluorophilic chemicals like fluorocarbons, when mixed with water and, say, petrolether dissolve in neither but form a third phase. The highly polarised C-F bond results in a negative surface charge all around the molecule, making interactions with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds unlikely. I am not sure whether the same is true for ETFE with its ethylen-blocks between the PTFE. RTFM ;-)
Engelbert Buxbaum : does the negative charge (of PTFE) can interact with positively charged proteins and can they adsorb them on their surface ?
No, this is not a localised negative charge like, say, a carboxy group. Think of a teflon (trade name for PTFE) frying pan or the waist coat of some politicians: nothing sticks.
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