AGC making FFKM grades without surfactants, fluorinated solvents

Tokyo – Japanese group AGC Inc. has introduced fluoroelastomer grades “manufactured entirely without the use of any surfactants or fluorinated polymerisation solvents” to its Aflas FFKM* portfolio.

The new grades are claimed to match the performance of conventional materials, while avoiding potential restrictions on the sale or use of materials containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).

This has been achieved through a proprietary AGC polymer manufacturing technology, according to a July statement from the Tokyo-based chemicals and polymers group.

Surfactants and fluorinated polymerisation solvents have long been essential for the manufacture of high performance FFKM, due to their roles in enhancing the reactivity of fluorinated monomers and manufacturing efficiency.

While various approaches that avoid the use of surfactants or fluorinated polymerisation solvents have been explored, achieving the high-performance requirements of FFKM remains a challenge.

AGC now claims to have overcome these barriers with a innovative polymerisation technology that allows the mass-production of the fluoroelastomer products without the use of the potentially restricted substances.

Initially, it said, the technology will be applied to the high-temperature-resistant type of FFKM fluoroelastomers, particularly the Aflas FFKM series for semiconductor manufacturing equipment.

For semiconductor manufacturers, the resistance to degradation makes it an important sealing material for plasma etching equipment, where it can extend maintenance intervals and enhance operational safety.

Commercial availability of the new FFKM grade began in July, noted AGC, which is planning to progressively introduce more new grades by extending the technology to other types of fluoroelastomers.

The FFKM series is said to feature especially high levels of resistance to chemicals, heat, and aggressive media, making it also suitable for use in harsh environments such as oil drilling, and healthcare.

*Aflas FFKM is described as a fully fluorinated elastomer made from tetrafluoroethylene and perfluoromethyl vinyl ether.

ERJ has requested further information about the polymerisation technology and for data comparing the performance of the new grades with that of conventionally produced fluoroelastomers.