New project at the Fraunhofer Institute: PFAS-FREE flame protection solutions wanted!

New project at the Fraunhofer Institute: PFAS-FREE flame protection solutions wanted!

At the Fraunhofer Institute for Operating Findiness and System Reliability LBF, a new composite project with the name "Compopfas" has started. The aim of this project is the substitution of PFAs (per and polyfluoro-alkyl substances) in flame-protected formulations. This initiative follows a previous project, which included the evaluation of alternatives to Pfas and was supported by the participation of 21 companies from the fields of medical technology and mechanical engineering. Research should concentrate in particular on the understanding of the mode of action of fluoral polymers and their possible substitutes and support the participants in the development of PFAS-free flame protection compounds, such as [Oekonews] (https://www2.oekonews.at/compoundieren-fas-in-flam-guten-formulations-Neues-projekt-Partner+2400+1226378) reported.

The project aims to carry out systematic research and studies in order to develop new and efficient formulations for flame retardants. The effect of additives such as fluorine polymers and low -molecular fluorine compounds is also examined because they are difficult to replace. In addition, understanding the mode of work is to be improved by fluorine -containing additives in order to create the basis for new flame -protected compounds.

research approaches and methodology

Research includes the recording of relevant plastic types and the focus of the participants in order to develop targeted research approaches. Compounding and injection molding campaigns for analyzing fire behavior and other properties are also planned. The knowledge gained is integrated iteratively into the development process in order to create concrete recommendations for action and the effects of possible substitutes.

In the current discussion about PFAS, the urgency of the topic is apparently, since more than 10,000 PFAs are on the ban on the ban on the European Chemical Agency (ECHA). This list published in February 2023 is currently in the evaluation. The ECHA proposes a ban on the production, use and delivery of PFAs. The need to check and evaluate replacement materials is therefore more urgent than Fraunhofer.

health and ecological implications

PFAS are not only significant in industry, but also represent a great environmental and health risk. They are bio-accumulative and can have serious effects on nature and humans. The use is often only carried out if the special properties of PFAs are indispensable, which makes it difficult to make a simple substitution. Participating companies are therefore required to better assess their individual situation and the challenges of a possible PFAS ban. The “Compopfas” project aims to process these aspects and find solutions that meet both the security requirements and are environmentally friendly.

In addition, the Fraunhofer alliance chemistry drives research and development topics in the context of the PFAS substitution. These include, among other things, the development of methods for the analysis and evaluation of PFAs as well as concepts for the separation of PFAs from water, as shown on the side of Fraunhofer Chemie.

Overall, it can be seen that a rethink in industry is necessary. The search for PFAS-free alternative materials has increased in many areas, and the "CompoPopfas" project is considered a hopeful in this way. Companies should adapt to the new challenges and actively participate in the development of sustainable solutions.