Creating a path forward without PTFE in coatings and inks - regulatory compliance while maintaining performance

 
Low molecular weight polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in the form of micronized powders have brought desirable properties for coating and ink applications including excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and low coefficient of friction. However, producing low molecular weight PTFE via irradiation process generates perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which can exceed concentrations >25 ppb. In 2019, the Stockholm Convention began restricting the use of raw materials containing >25 PFOA. This global restriction on PFOA and its salts as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) has impacted traditional PTFE. The need for PFOA compliant PTFE or PTFE-free alternatives has been greatly expedited. In this paper, we present new technology that serves as a viable alternative to PTFE. These PTFE-free formulations deliver similar properties to PTFE-containing formulations in various applications. The advantages of the halogen free additives are characterized by good compatibility in inks and coatings and due to their low density as compared to PTFE, are easier to disperse and process.