PFAS and PTFE in the Sealing Industry: What’s Next?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are currently under close scrutiny by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). However, fluoropolymers, including the widely used PTFE, and the consequences of a potential ban have so far been largely overlooked. The sealing industry, in particular, is facing considerable uncertainty as a complete ban could have severe implications. Stephan Piringer, Head of Research and Development at KLINGER Dichtungstechnik, outlines the current status of the debate and discusses possible alternatives.

PFAS – Is a Ban imminent?

The ECHA has been evaluating the potential restriction of various PFAS compounds for a long time. However, no definitive ban has been implemented yet and the final decision lies with the political authorities at the EU level.

Meanwhile, the United States is currently pursuing a different strategy. Several U.S. states have already banned certain PFAS, such as those used in firefighting foams and cosmetics. In addition, a reporting requirement has been put in place that applies retroactively to all PFAS produced or imported into the U.S. since January 1, 2011. Manufacturers and importers must report extensive details to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including quantities, uses, disposal methods, byproducts, exposure, and environmental effects.

The latest facts on the PFAS Debate:

• PTFE is one of about 20 fluoropolymers among thousands of PFAS compounds.
• Currently, gaskets are not explicitly subject to a ban, but under the current proposal, fluoropolymer-based gasket materials would be affected if the regulation passes.
• A recent ECHA statement indicated for the first time that fluoropolymers may be evaluated separately.

Why a PTFE Ban Could Cripple the Industry

Alberto Rocca, Business Development Manager for Sealing Products at KLINGER Holding, recently pointed out that only 20% of existing gaskets could realistically be replaced in the near future. PTFE offers unique chemical and physical properties that are essential for numerous applications:

• High temperature resistance
• Outstanding chemical resistance
• Excellent adaptability to surface conditions

“Alternatives to PTFE have consistently failed to meet at least one of these critical properties,” explains Stephan, making replacement impossible at this time. Industrieds affected include manufacturing, plastics processing, chemical production, and semiconductor manufacturing.

Examples of Potential Conflicts

The Metal Technology Industry Association (Economic Chamber of Austria) has consulted its members and published a position paper highlighting examples of critical applications and implicit conflicts.

For example, the energy transition could be negatively impacted because only PTFE can withstand potassium hydroxide at 90 °C in hydrogen production via electrolysis. Stephan also highlights digitization efforts: “The EU Chips Act aims to double Europe’s global semiconductor production share to 20% by 2030. A PFAS ban could jeopardize this goal, as PTFE is uniquely suited to the corrosive chemicals and high temperatures used in semiconductor manufacturing.”

Evaluating Alternatives to PTFE

Proposals for PFAS-free alternatives are frequent, but alternative materials often fall short in practical sealing applications. Polyamides or other polymers cannot replicate the full range of material properties of PTFE. Fiber-based materials can substitute PTFE in isolated cases but offer significantly reduced lifespan and often fail in temperature range or sealing effectiveness.

Environmental Responsibility at KLINGER

KLINGER Dichtungstechnik actively supports the EU’s intention to eliminate harmful chemicals from production chains. As stated in a recent announcement, the company will continue to implement measures to improve the environmental sustainability of PTFE-based sealing materials in 2025. KLINGER is working closely with raw material suppliers to fully convert production processes to fluorosurfactant-free PTFE raw materials and eliminate harmful PFAS entirely. Independent testing by TÜV Rheinland already confirms the absence of non-polymeric PFAS in PTFE gaskets, such as TopChem.

Political Debate and Industry Response

Several prominent Austrian manufacturers have formed the “Fluoropolymer Alliance Austria” to become more politically active and raise awareness of the technical implications and potential consequences of a ban. “Without PTFE, many key technologies would not be feasible,” emphasizes Stephan.

An Uncertain Future 

As the political decision-making process regarding PFAS and PTFE progresses slowly, the sealing industry remains vigilant. Current developments indicate that fluoropolymers may be treated differently for technically critical applications. However, there are currently no viable alternatives to PTFE – a fact that is likely to weigh heavily in future decisions.

For the sealing industry, this means cautious relief but not long-term certainty.