Solvay’s Tecnoflon® FKM Fluoroelastomer Product Line to Phase Out Fluorinated Surfactants

Source: Solvay

Solvay has introduced a groundbreaking patented polymerization technology, setting a new trend in the industry.

As a global leader in fluorine chemistry, Solvay recently launched an innovative, high-quality Tecnoflon® FKM fluoroelastomer product line, produced without the use of fluorinated surfactants (a type of PFAS used as processing aids).

This new patented technology, called NFS (No Fluorinated Surfactants), represents a significant breakthrough in fluoroelastomer polymerization technology and advances fluoropolymer products toward a more sustainable future, fully aligning with Solvay’s "One Planet" sustainability program.

"Our fluoroelastomer product line has long been the most comprehensive solution on the market, making the Tecnoflon® brand the leading name in the industry," said Georges Houtappel, Executive Vice President of Solvay's Automotive Market Materials Division. "This unique new NFS polymerization process further highlights Solvay's leadership in both production capacity and innovative technology, as well as our commitment to a sustainable future."

Before the global release of the innovative Tecnoflon® FKM fluoroelastomer grades, Solvay will begin large-scale sample production in July 2022 to facilitate market testing and adoption of the NFS technology. The goal is to fully transition Tecnoflon® FKM to Tecnoflon® FKM NFS by the first quarter of 2024.

Fluoroelastomers are critical products for key performance applications in industries such as automotive and aerospace, oil and gas, chemical processing, electronics, and healthcare. Typical applications include seals, gaskets, O-rings, and hoses.