PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) offer numerous properties that industrial coating applications require, including chemical stability and resistance to high temperatures. However, a few long-chain PFAS products, like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), can be detrimental to the environment. Unlike those long-chain compounds, many other coating types, such as sol-gel and other compounds, are environmentally safe and suitable for various coating requirements. In this blog post, we’ll highlight and compare different PFAS alternatives so you can make the right choice for your needs.
Different Classes of Chemicals Besides PFAS
With more restrictions around PFAS, businesses are seeking suitable alternatives for coatings and other applications. Some of the specific classes of chemicals besides PFAS include:
- Silanes and siloxanes
- Sol-gel coatings
- Silicone-based compounds
- Nano-coatings
Many of these offer superior adhesion and water resistance with little environmental impact. However, some perform better than others in industrial coating applications.
Sol-Gel vs. Silicone Coatings: Pros & Cons
Two popular PFAS alternatives that work for surface modification include sol-gel coatings and silicone coatings, each of which comes with its advantages and disadvantages:
Sol-Gel Coatings
The benefits of using sol-gel coatings include the following:
- High resistance to chemicals with equally high hardness
- Sufficient adhesion to a range of substrates
- Ample flexibility for custom options based on unique application needs
This type of material can be more complex to apply than other alternatives and presents limitations in certain temperature ranges. It also has a shorter release life compared to fluoropolymers.
Silicone Coatings
Silicone-based coatings offer high temperature resistance and durability. They also repel water and resist various chemicals. Some of the possible disadvantages of using these coatings can include:
- Lower hardness level compared to other coatings
- Vulnerability to abrasion
- A reduced release life compared to fluoropolymers
Considerations When Choosing Alternatives to PFAS
When selecting a PFAS alternative for industrial coatings, the following are some critical factors to consider:
- Performance requirements. One important element to consider is the required performance, taking into account characteristics like temperature resistance, water repellency, durability, hardness, adhesion capabilities, chemical resistance, and release/non-stick properties.
- Environmental impact. Think about the potential environmental impact of your PFAS alternative across every stage, from production to use and disposal.
- Cost-effectiveness. Choose a coating that can help you save money in the long term and stay within budget based on the cost of purchasing, application, and maintenance.
- Regulatory compliance. Quality industrial coatings will also comply with industry and environmental regulations to prevent potential issues at any point during use.
Alternative Industrial Coating Solutions by Plas-Tech Coatings
When seeking PFAS alternatives for industrial coatings, Plas-Tech Coatings is here for you. We’ll direct you toward the right product, providing a custom solution that can work best for your application. As a leading licensed industrial applicator, we offer products like powder coatings that give you similar results to PFAS while minimizing environmental impact. These solutions work for customers across a range of industries, including aerospace, food service, packaging, and industrial service sectors.
To get started on a custom solution for your application, request a quote from us, and we’ll put you in touch with a member of our team.