We’re up to element number 9 in our International Year of the Periodic Table series: Fluorine. The most reactive element in the periodic table, fluorine finds uses in frying pans and toothpaste.
On this day in 1941, Teflon, the polymer commonly found in non-stick pans, was patented. Its discovery actually occurred a few years previously – here’s a quick look at the story behind it, as well as the science behind its non-stick effect.