PCTFE (a homopolymer of chlorotrifluoroethylene) contains both chlorine and fluorine atoms in its carbon chain while PTFE (a homopolymer of tetrafluoroethylene) contains only fluorine atoms. The replacement of fluorine with chlorine makes PCTFE stronger and stiffer while also lowering viscosity and improving creep resistance and tensile strength. PTFE, however, has a higher melting point and has slightly better chemical resistance.

Unlike PTFE, PCTFE can be injection molded and extruded.