Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISCPFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of chemicals found in numerous everyday products and industrial applications. In addition to their excellent thermal and mechanical properties and chemical inertness, this class of materials is distinguished by its unique ability to repel water, grease, and dirt simultaneously. PFAS are used in a variety of applications, including non-stick cookware and water-repellent textiles or membranes. They are also an important component in industry, where they are used in chemically and thermally inert seals, conformal coatings, and thermally stable coatings in electronics production and the automotive industry. However, there are growing concerns about the environmental and health risks associated with PFAS, as they are are very persistent in the environment as well as in the human body where they can accumulate.
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Where do we find PFAS?
PFAS-free alternatives for a wide range of applications
PFAS-free, sustainable solutions for everyday products and industrial applications
Our developments for PFAS-free alternatives cover a wide variety of application areas such as textiles, packaging materials, battery technologies, medical technology and electronic components. We present a selection of these here.
PFAS-free textiles for clothing
PFAS are used in the production of textiles to make them water-, dirt-, and grease-repellent, making them ideal for outdoor clothing and textiles or home textiles subject to wear and tear. However, as PFAS are released into the environment when textiles are washed and through abrasion, it is advisable to replace them as soon as possible. There are already some suitable alternatives on the market, and the Fraunhofer ISC has been researching this area for many years.
PFAS-free non-stick coatings
There are already some excellent alternatives to PFAS for coated pans. But non-stick coatings are also used in numerous industrial manufacturing processes. The Fraunhofer ISC has developed first fluorine-free alternatives based on ORMOCER® that can be specifically adapted to the respective application.
PFAS-free cathodes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries
The production of stand-of-technology cathodes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries typically involves the use of toxic solvents, such as N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and fluorinated binders, including polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Our company has been engaged in developing a water-based cathode production process for several years. This process aims to eliminate the use of toxic solvents and transition to PFAS-free binders, aligning with our commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.
PFAS-free papers and packaging
The field of application is distinguished by high sensitivity and omnipresence, as there is often direct contact with people and, on occasion, also with foodstuffs. The products are released into the environment. It is therefore crucial to substitute PFAS in this context. The Fraunhofer ISC has been developing multifunctional, sustainable coatings for paper and packaging for many years. These coatings can cover typical PFAS properties (water and grease repellent, chemically resistant, etc.). The institute offers a range of coating systems and pilot-scale test facilities for this purpose.
PFAS-free electronic components
PFAS often play a critical role in electronic components, printed circuit boards, and cabling, especially when it comes to combining high insulation, dielectric strength, thermal and chemical resistance, and fire protection. Fluorinated gases and polymers are also used as process chemicals in semiconductor electronics. ORMOCER® materials can be used in both product and process environments - either as environmentally friendly alternatives to fluorinated polymers in electronic components or to reduce the need for fluorinated process chemicals.