Fluorotelomer

A fluorotelomer is a type of polyfluoroalkyl substance produced via the telomerization process, in which tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) is reacted with a telogen to create fluorinated carbon chains of varying lengths. Fluorotelomer-based products include fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs, e.g., 6:2 FTOH, 8:2 FTOH), fluorotelomer acrylates, and fluorotelomer sulfonates. The nomenclature ‘X:Y’ indicates X perfluorinated carbons followed by Y non-fluorinated carbons. Fluorotelomers are widely used in textile treatments, paper coatings, and food packaging.

Buck et al. (2011); OECD (2013); ITRC PFAS Technical Guidance; EPA CompTox Dashboard.

Fluorotelomers are significant because many are precursors—they degrade in the environment to form terminal perfluoroalkyl acids. An 8:2 FTOH degrades to PFOA; a 6:2 FTOH degrades to PFHxA and shorter PFAAs. The shift from C8 to C6 fluorotelomer chemistry was industry’s primary response to early PFOA concerns, but regulators are now targeting C6 chemistry as well (PFHxA restriction, April 2026). Companies using fluorotelomer-based products should identify the specific chain length and assess regulatory exposure.

A paper mill uses a 6:2 fluorotelomer phosphate ester (6:2 diPAP) as a grease-proofing agent for food contact paper. The 6:2 diPAP degrades to 6:2 FTOH and then to PFHxA. With PFHxA restricted under REACH from April 2026, the paper mill must transition to fluorine-free grease-proofing alternatives.