The Environmentally Responsible Choice
Fluoropolymers and PFAS - where do we stand?
IFS Coatings is committed to providing coatings with an improved sustainability footprint compared to liquid paint to the architectural industry and the broader built environment. We choose to manufacture only powder coatings as they do not directly rely on solvents for manufacture or application. Solvent free powder coatings with negligible VOCs are a more sustainable alternative to traditional solvent- based coatings.
We provide various levels of performance for architectural coating finishes. Our highest performing product is based on fluoropolymer chemistry, specifically FEVE- fluoroethylene vinyl ether copolymer. Fluoropolymer coatings, including FEVE- based and PVDF- based are used on high value structures as well as windows, doors, storefronts, and other architectural elements. Fluoropolymer coatings provide the highest level of exterior protection. IFS 500FP fluoropolymer powder coating is manufactured using FEVE fluoropolymer technology, not PVDF.
FEVE fluoropolymers are considered PFAS (per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances) under the broadest definition (a material containing a CₙF₂ₙ moiety). Two other types of PFAS, PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorosulfonic acid) have been identified as sources for contamination of waterways and ultimately humans. FEVE is not PFOA or PFOS and isn’t manufactured using these materials.
Many fluorinated materials fall under the definition of PFAS, but not all have been shown to be harmful. Some classes of PFAS, like fluoropolymers, are thought to be polymers of low concern (PLC). The PLC criteria is listed below. The referenced links provide a more detailed analysis.
The referenced links provide a more detailed analysis.
https://doi.org/10.1002/ieam.4035
https://doi.org/10.1002/ieam.4646
At this time, we believe the benefit of long- life coatings based on FEVE fluoropolymer technology add value to the built environment and replacing them would result in inferior technology that would ultimately increase the carbon footprint of structures. Multiple painting cycles would be needed with non- fluoropolymer coatings and this would impact the environment negatively. Also, because the latest assessment of risk of FEVE fluoropolymer to the environment is low, we will continue to offer these superior performing coating systems to the market. As we are committed to providing environmentally responsible materials to the built environment, we are continually monitoring the latest research on these materials and how they may impact the environment.