The Toolkit
Why Cast Iron Gets Sticky, Flaky, and Rusty—and the Polymer Chemistry That Fixes It
Cast iron's non-stick seasoning is a polymerized layer of oil, not a coating, formed by fat molecules linking into a hard, plastic-like film. Understanding this polymer chemistry is key to diagnosing and fixing common problems like stickiness, flaking, and rust, and maintaining a durable cooking surface.
Mina Park·October 24, 2026
