◆Yoshida SKT Co., Ltd.◆ Understand the differences between PTFE, PFOS, and PFOA! Release of the PFAS Countermeasure Guide for the Manufacturing Industry

吉田ＳＫＴ

Fluororesins, widely used in manufacturing sites, possess excellent properties such as low friction and non-stick characteristics, and are classified as a type of "PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)." In Japan, only certain PFAS that raise concerns about environmental and health impacts are regulated. Among PFAS, PTFE (fluororesin) differs in nature from PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS, which are regulated under international treaties (the POPs Convention), and it is considered non-harmful except for significant high-temperature use. However, a broad PFAS regulation proposal that includes PTFE is being considered within the EU, and if adopted, it could lead to strengthened international regulations. If regulations on fluororesins become a reality, the impact on the manufacturing industry would be immense, as there are no complete alternative technologies available, making compliance extremely challenging. In light of this background, Yoshida SKT is offering a free guide titled "PFAS Countermeasures for the Manufacturing Industry," which summarizes the latest trends and alternative technologies. This guide clearly explains the definition of PFAS, the regulatory situation, and compares the properties of PTFE, PFOS, and PFOA in a table format, while also introducing alternative coating technologies that do not use PFAS. For more details, please check the link.