Expanded PTFE is manufactured by expanding 100% virgin PTFE using a proprietary process that produces a uniform and highly fibrillated microstructure with equal tensile strength in all directions. The lightweight ePTFE exhibits characteristics significantly different than any other type of PTFE sheet manufactured. This sheet is much softer, more flexible, and easier to compress than skived or restructured PTFE sheets and thus conforms easily to irregular and rough surfaces. Even though the sheet is soft and easy to compress, when PTFE fibers are expanded in a controlled manner, they become extremely strong. These high strength, biaxially-oriented fibers make ePTFE the PTFE product with the lowest creep and cold flow. Therefore, ePTFE can be safely used in temperatures that might cause other styles of PTFE to creep, lose bolt load, and leak. Expanded PTFE gasketing products are available flat sheets, rectangular profile sheet-like gasket tapes, and form-in-place joint sealant.