Poly(tetrafluoro)ethylene (PTFE) is produced on an estimated 2 x 10 8 kg / year scale through a multistep process that converts fluorite (CaF2) to HF to CHClF2 to C2F4, which is then subject to a radical polymerisation. PTFE is a high-molecular weight semi-crystalline polymer and is among the most chemically resistant materials in existence. PTFE finds applications as a wire coating and insulation, in non-stick cookware, in weather-resistant materials, alongside many others such as in carbon fibre composites, aerosol lubricants and in military grade pyrotechnics. Despite its widespread use, current methods for recycling or destruction of PTFE are limited and there is an urgent need to establish methods for its remediation.