Fluoroelastomer Supply Threatened by PFAS Classification

PFAS Classification Threatens Fluoroelastomer Supply

PFAS is a generic term referring to a group compounds that contain Carbon-to-Fluorine bonds, C-F3 and C-F2¹. This includes all fluoropolymers and fluoroelastomers such as FKM, FFKM, PTFE, and many others. These materials are extremely useful in critical applications due to their properties such as resistance to heat, chemicals, and environmental exposure. These important characteristics result from the strong bond between the fluorine and carbon atoms, which is unmatched in the world of polymers. PFAS-based materials are highly desirable for a number of industries and applications, including semiconductor manufacturing, lithium ion batteries, smart phones, medical technologies, and aerospace.

While there can be many excellent uses for PFAS base polymers, some PFAS chemicals have shown environmental and health drawbacks. Due to their extreme resistance to heat and chemicals, they do not break down in the environment, cleverly earning the nickname “forever chemicals,” and can move through soil to contaminate drinking water sources. From a health perspective, they can lead to liver damage, thyroid issues, obesity, cancer, and fertility issues.

But, not all hope is lost. Fluoropolymers do not pose the same risks as some of their more dangerous PFAS chemical relatives. Even though they are currently being lumped in with the 8000 or more chemicals under scrutiny by the EPA, EU and other local authorities, they are not the focus of attention. At present, there are regulations regarding subsets of PFAS that were commonly used in fire retardants and firefighting foam. However, as of June 8, 2023, there are no regulations on fluoropolymers themselves. Current proposals may restrict the chemicals used to manufacture fluoropolymers and this is something that is being closely monitored by the manufacturers.

3M to Exit PFAS Market by 2025

At the end of 2022, 3M, one of the world’s largest fluorochemical producers, announced a planned exit of the PFAS market by 2025. 3M will cease producing all fluoropolymers, fluorinated fluids, and PFAS-based additives. Such products include polymers sold under the Dyneon brand, like polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and fluoroelastomers.

Currently, other large producers of PFAS-based materials like Dupont or Chemours do not have plans to remove themselves from the fluoropolymer marketplace. For many applications, these materials do not have alternatives. However, if an alternative exists for your application, Gallagher Fluid Seals can help determine what material will best suit your wants and needs.

Gallagher Fluid Seals is proud to work with the world’s top plastic and rubber suppliers, those who are committed to manufacturing high-quality products – committed to the health and safety of those who utilize their products.

If you have any questions or concerns about PFAS, the 3M discontinuation, or specific compounds and material formulations, contact us today.

¹https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Per-_and_polyfluoroalkyl_substances