Fluoropolymer

Fluoropolymers are a subclass of PFAS consisting of high-molecular-weight polymers with a carbon-only backbone in which some or all hydrogen atoms are replaced by fluorine. Common fluoropolymers include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, brand name Teflon), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), and perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA). Fluoropolymers are widely used in industry due to their exceptional chemical resistance, thermal stability, low friction, and electrical insulation properties.

Buck et al. (2011); Henry et al. (2018) Integr. Environ. Assess. Manag.; EU PFAS Restriction Annex XV Report (2023, updated August 2025); OECD (2022) Synthesis Report on Fluoropolymers.

Fluoropolymers are among the most contested applications in the EU universal PFAS restriction. Industry argues that fluoropolymers are “polymers of low concern” due to their high molecular weight, low solubility, and minimal bioavailability. The August 2025 updated restriction proposal introduced a third regulatory option (RO3) that would permit continued fluoropolymer use under strict emission controls. ECHA’s RAC and SEAC are evaluating whether fluoropolymers warrant the same restrictions as lower-molecular-weight PFAS. Regardless of the EU outcome, companies using fluoropolymers should prepare supply chain documentation demonstrating which specific polymers they use and under what conditions.

A valve manufacturer uses PTFE seals in chemical processing equipment. Under RO3 of the EU restriction proposal, the manufacturer could continue using PTFE if site-specific PFAS emission management plans are implemented. Under a full ban (RO1), the manufacturer would need to switch to non-fluorinated seal materials within the derogation period.