Widely used since the 1950s, PFAS are known to be extremely harmful to the environment and human health. A 2024 global study by Nature Geoscience found PFAS in 31% of surveyed groundwater samples, while the CDC estimates that PFAS are present in the blood serum of 98% of the US population.
The properties of PFAS are unique and useful, but the health and environmental impact has led to significant restrictions on their use. As PFAS are phased out, Radical’s PFAS replacement masterbatches provide an ideal alternative for many applications, in some cases offering improvements over the performance of the PFAS.
PFAS have been used in applications as diverse as non-stick cookware, aerospace, electronics, food packaging, constuction, clothing & furniture, where their unique fluorine chemistry provides exceptional properties based on the stability and strength of the C-F bond.
However, this stability and strength comes at a price… when PFAS escape into the environment or enter the human body they cannot be broken down, leading to accumulation.
PFAS cannot be broken down by the human body, leading to accumulation and potentially significant adverse effects on health, including: thyroid disease, liver damage, cancer, ulcerative colitis, early puberty onset, reduced response to vaccines & infertility. PFAS are present in the blood of a startling number of people globally, including 99% of the population of the USA.
A study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit that tracks PFAS contamination, found PFAS in a range of species such as scorpions, pandas, Siberian tigers, turtles, horses, dogs, plankton, sea lions, wild boar, otters and oysters.
PFAS are present in most bodies of seawater. The concentrations vary, but have led to seafood consumption becoming a major pathway for PFAS exposure, accounting for 86% of adult perfluorooctane sulfonate exposure according to a 2018 review by the European Food Safety Authority.
Polymer processing aids based on PFAS are frequently used in extruded polymers, to prevent the surface defects caused by polymer chain “recoil” as the material exits the extrusion die. While certainly effective, PFAS achieve this by coating the die wall, a process that can take some time to stabilise and which requires a significant clean down to remove this coating residue.
In contrast, PFAS-free PPAs can employ internal viscosity modifiers which lower the friction at the polymer-die interface, achieving the same result but without the lengthy and costly downsides.
Have a question? We are always happy to chat, so feel free to give us a call on +44(0)1495211400.
By ensuring smooth flow, Radical’s PFAS-free processing aids eliminate the surface defects associated with “slip/stick” interactions between the die wall and extruded plastic.
Die build-up occurs as the polymer exits the extruder and experiences a rapid change in pressure. As this build-up increases and expands, it will eventually attach to the extruded material, causing surface defects.
By reducing Shark Skin and die build-up, the surface becomes smoother and free of defects, which in turn results in improved transparency and higher gloss levels.
The reduction of die build-up ensures continuous and smooth production without the need for shutdown and maintenance. During extrusion, the time to achieve stable torque can be reduced by 33% while peak torque can be reduced by up to 40%.
Reducing internal viscosity means the extruder doesn’t need to work as hard, reducing power consumption for a given throughput. Alternatively, maintaining the same amperage results in increased throughput.
| Product Code | Polymer | Food Contact | TDS |
|---|---|---|---|
| RM-PE-NA-1000 | PE | Yes |
|
| RM-PP-NA-1002 | PP | Yes |
|
| RM-PVC-NA-1004 | PVC | Yes |
|
| RM-TPU-NA-1006 | TPU | Yes |
|
| RM-PET-NA-1008 | PET | Yes |
|
A large proportion of our work is the development of custom solutions, often outside the scope of our standard product range. We relish a challenge, so feel free to test our capabilities..
With the on-site capabilities and facilities, Radical Materials are able to support small to large custom developments from lab scale all the way up to full production.
A wide suite of test facilities are available to support developments. These include mechanical tests as well as properties such as thermal conductivity and surface resistivity.
A wide suite of test facilities are available to support developments. These include mechanical tests as well as properties such as thermal conductivity and surface resistivity.
A continuing focus on new and novel technologies to bring advantages and progression to conductive polymers.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products 1 since the 1940s. They are resistant to grease, water, and oil, and are used in a wide variety of products, including non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, firefighting foam, and food packaging.
PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment. They can persist for a long time, contaminating soil, water, and air. This persistence leads to their accumulation in the environment and our bodies.
Studies have shown that exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes, including:
People can be exposed to PFAS in several ways:
The regulation of PFAS is evolving. Some countries and states have set limits on certain PFAS in drinking water, and there are ongoing efforts to further regulate their use and production.
While it’s impossible to completely avoid PFAS, you can take steps to reduce your exposure:
Major sources include:
There are thousands of different PFAS, and they vary in their chemical structure and toxicity. More research is needed to fully understand the health effects of all PFAS.Thermosets: the individual molecular chains are tightly cross-linked meaning once the material is hardened into a form, it will no longer melt or flow (think of boiling an egg). Common examples are bakelite, epoxy resin, polyester resin etc.
Scientists are working to develop methods to remove PFAS from contaminated water and soil. Governments are working to regulate PFAS and phase out their use in products. Companies are developing PFAS-free alternatives.
Radical Materials Ltd
Unit 10, Rassau Industrial Estate, Ebbw Vale, Gwent NP23 5SD, United Kingdom
+44 (0) 1495 211400 info@radicalmaterials.com
SCOPIC® & KONDUCT® are registered trademarks of Radical Materials Ltd. AIRSENTIAL® is a registered trademark of Radical IP Ltd.
Radical Materials is presently working on a project aimed at developing performance polymer compounds to provide EMI/RFI shielding solutions in moulding/extrusion applications. This project is being undertaken with financial support from the ERDF via the SMARTCymru 2014-2020 West Wales and the Valleys Operational Programme.
