PFAS in the coatings industry: risks, applications, and regulatory challenges
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are chemical compounds that have been of great importance in numerous industrial applications due to their unique properties, such as thermal and chemical stability, as well as water- and grease-repellent effects. These substances, which have been in use since the 1950s, are found in coatings, paints, plastics, as well as in electronics and medical technologies. At the same time, PFAS have come under increasing regulatory scrutiny due to their environmental and health risks.
PFAS are present in a wide range of applications, especially in the coatings industry, where they are used in industrial paints, powder coatings, and plastic coatings. They are also found in functional coatings, such as ship paints and building paints, as well as in bio-based and water-based coatings. In high-tech sectors like the semiconductor industry and medicine, PFAS are indispensable.
Health and Environmental Risks
A major issue with PFAS is their persistence in the environment. Once released, they remain in soil, water, and the food chain for years to decades. PFAS can enter the human body through drinking water, food, or skin contact, where they accumulate and are only slowly broken down. Over time, they have been linked to health risks such as elevated cholesterol, liver and hormone disruptions, reduced fertility, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Event Tip: understanding PFAS and reformulating PFAS-free coatings
01. – 31. December 2024 | On-Demand
PFAS are synthetic fluorine compounds, known for their resistance to water, dirt, and grease. Despite their technical benefits, they pose health risks and face increasing regulatory scrutiny. Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden are pushing for an EU-wide PFAS ban by 2026. Discover how the industry can adapt with our On-Demand Package from the 2024 conference.
Regulatory Developments and Challenges
In light of the risks to the environment and health, PFAS are under increasing regulatory scrutiny worldwide. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed a comprehensive ban on the production and use of certain PFAS. While some countries are pushing for complete substitution, there are strong voices warning against a blanket ban, particularly from the semiconductor industry, where some PFAS compounds are indispensable. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified more than 12,000 PFAS compounds, with only a portion of these being classified as particularly dangerous. The central challenge remains distinguishing between problematic and less critical PFAS compounds.
Alternatives and Innovation Approaches
In parallel with regulatory efforts, companies and research institutions are working on PFAS-free alternatives. Promising approaches for hydrophilic coatings without PFAS have emerged, but these solutions are still not fully developed and face technical challenges. Substitution not only requires time but also significant investments in research and development.
Conclusion
The discussion surrounding PFAS highlights the complex challenges faced by the coatings industry. While the risks associated with PFAS are undeniable, the search for feasible and technologically viable alternatives remains a central task. A differentiated approach that considers both technological innovation and the protection of health and the environment is essential for developing long-term sustainable solutions.
