While the EU and other regions have voiced concerns over the environmental impact of PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), and fluoropolymers in particular, the same scrutiny isn’t being applied in the UK.
Let's investigate the misconceptions surrounding fluoropolymers and highlight why their use in high-performance coating technology may have been green-lighted by the UK.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS is an umbrella term for a large group of synthetic chemicals known for their resistance to heat, water and corrosion. However, it's important to understand that not all PFAS are created equal. The term covers thousands of substances with diverse properties, some of which raise legitimate environmental concerns, while others—like fluoropolymers—present minimal risk.
Fluoropolymers, a type of PFAS, are sometimes wrongly grouped along with other PFAS that contain harmful substances such as PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid). However, such generalisations often overlook the unique characteristics and benefits of specific PFAS, such as fluoroethylene vinyl ether (FEVE) found in fluoropolymer paints.
Fluoropolymers: An Essential Material in Coatings
Fluoropolymers, particularly those based on fluoroethylene vinyl ether (FEVE), offer exceptional properties that make them invaluable for protective coatings. These include:
1. Self-cleaning
The low surface energy of fluoropolymers makes them highly hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. This means that airborne contaminants are more easily washed away by rain, keeping the surface cleaner and discouraging moss or mildew growth.
2. Anti-corrosive
The highly engineered two-part chemically cured FEVE resin prohibits the ingress of water, chlorides and other corrosion initiators through its film. This means that, unlike traditional resins used in topcoats, fluoropolymer resins provide a uniquely robust form of barrier protection that even exceeds the demands set out in ISO 12944.
3. Durable
Several factors contribute to the durability of fluoropolymer coatings:
a) UV Resistant
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the main reasons why traditional coatings fade or deteriorate. With their excellent UV-resistant properties, fluoropolymers are better at retaining their long-term structure, colour and gloss when exposed to sunlight.
b) Chemical Resistant
Fluoropolymers are highly resistant to chemicals and environmental pollutants such as acid rain, salt and industrial gases. This reduces the potential for surface corrosion or degradation.
c) Wear Resistant
Fluoropolymers are tough and resistant to physical wear. This means that the coating can withstand wind-blown particles, sand or debris, which might otherwise wear down other coatings.
Dispelling Environmental Myths
The key argument against fluoropolymers stems from their classification as PFAS, leading to concerns about environmental persistence. However, this ignores several important distinctions:
1. Bioavailability
Unlike other harmful PFAS, fluoropolymers do not bioaccumulate in living organisms, making them less of a threat to ecosystems and human health.
2. Durability and Environmental Impact
The durability of fluoropolymer coatings significantly reduces the need for frequent reapplications. For instance, they can last between 60 and 120 years before requiring repainting, compared to the typical 20-25 year lifespan of conventional coatings. This longevity translates into fewer emissions, less waste and reduced environmental impact over time.
3. Regulatory Approval
Fluoropolymers with a high molecular weight, such as those used by Unova Products, have been rigorously tested and meet global safety standards, including the UK’s REACH regulations. Additionally, these coatings do not contain harmful substances such as PFOA or PFOS, which are the primary chemicals of concern in PFAS discussions.
Fluoropolymers vs Other PFAS
Lumping all PFAS together is like suggesting all drugs should be banned simply because some, like recreational drugs, pose a risk. In reality, many substances—such as caffeine or medicinal drugs—are essential to our daily lives. Similarly, while certain PFAS have harmful environmental effects, fluoropolymers provide benefits that far outweigh their minimal risks.
The UK’s Stance on Fluoropolymers
This may be why the UK, with its post-Brexit regulatory independence, is taking a different stance on FEVE. Unless and until an equally high-performing alternative that is proven to be safer than fluorinated products is developed, allowing fluoropolymer coatings to be used for certain applications remains crucial. The fact that they don’t pose the same threat as other fluorinated substances such as PFOA and PFOS may be another contributing factor.
Economic factors may also play a part in the UK’s decision: restricting FEVE could be disruptive to industries that significantly contribute to the economy and employment.
Free of EU legislation, the UK may also be taking a more nuanced approach to FEVE regulations. Rather than imposing a blanket ban on fluoropolymers, reviewing their use and risk profiles on an individual basis will strike a better balance between industrial necessity and environmental stewardship.
Medical Uses for Fluoropolymers
Due to their unique molecular structure, fluoropolymers resist degradation but do not leach toxic substances into the environment. This makes them an essential material for applications in transportation, electronics, medical devices and, crucially, protective coatings that safeguard infrastructure.
Take their positive impact on the healthcare sector, for example.
- In delicate surgical procedures such as eye surgery, the smallest amount of bacteria can cause serious complications. Fluoropolymers are widely used to coat surgical instruments, creating a smooth and non-porous surface that is easy to clean and reduces the risk of infection.
- Implants and prosthetics also require the hygienic, durable surfaces that fluoropolymers can provide. Another benefit of fluoropolymers in this field of surgery is that while they are strong and durable, they also provide the flexibility required for unimpeded body movement.
- Fluoropolymers are also chemically inert, which means they don’t react when coming into contact with sensitive tissues. This, and the flexible strength that enables them to navigate the body, makes them the ideal material for surgical tubes and catheters.
Balanced and Responsible Use of Fluoropolymer Coatings
Blanket criticism of PFAS should be avoided, especially when discussing highly beneficial fluoropolymer coatings. Their exceptional durability, resistance to environmental factors and minimal environmental impact make them an ideal choice for long-lasting, protective applications. The fact that this criticism originated from coatings companies that don’t offer fluoropolymer-based products raises the question as to how objective their research and reporting might have been on the subject.
While environmental concerns surrounding certain PFAS are valid, it is crucial to differentiate between harmful chemicals and those that are essential, safe and beneficial. The fluoropolymers used by Unova Products fall into the latter category, offering solutions that enhance performance while supporting sustainability.
