PFAS in electronics

What is PFAS?

PFAS are synthetic chemicals composed of chains of carbon and fluorine, and they contain at least one fully fluorinated methyl group (CF₃-) or methylene group (-CF₂-). Both low molecular weight and polymeric compounds belong to the broad group of PFAS, with the three different types of polymeric PFAS being fluoropolymers, perfluoropolyethers, and side-chain fluorinated polymers.

Substitution of PFAS 

Research has shown that studied PFAS have negative health effects on humans and animals. Due to the fact that PFAS do not break down in the environment, the widespread use of PFAS in various types of articles, chemical products, and processes has led to global contamination. To reduce human exposure to PFAS, and thereby the risk of long-term effects, many countries are now taking initiatives to reduce the use of PFAS and implementing strict regulations to protect both health and the environment. Within REACH, a broad restriction proposal is currently being processed that aims to regulate PFAS as a group in EU in most applications.

PFAS in electronics

In the electronics industry, PFAS are used, among other things, to make components water- and dirt-repellent, to insulate cables and wires and make them resistant to heat and chemical impact, to make plastics more fire-resistant, and to improve the durability and efficiency of batteries.

Does my electronic product contain PFAS?

An electronic product is a complex item consisting of many components, and it is common for the entity placing the product on the market not to have information about which components contain PFAS. At RISE, we apply our published systematic workflow for PFAS testing to determine whether there are PFAS in specific articles and chemical products.

Our analysis methodology also captures polymeric PFAS that can be found in electronics if PFAS is added to provide a function. Together with the customer, we review all components and make decisions on which components should be analyzed based on their function and the greatest likelihood of containing PFAS, to avoid the need to analyze every individual component.

Alternatives to PFAS in electronics

Based on the analyses we have conducted on electronic components, we see that many alternative materials are in use. In addition to looking at alternative materials, one can also consider redesigning the product or part of the product to avoid or reduce the use of PFAS. Keep an eye out for new alternatives, where there is a lot of development happening right now, particularly in the battery sector.

Circular electronics

Eliminating PFAS in electronics would benefit the potential for circular flows and enable recycling. Even recycled materials for use in new goods are included in the universal PFAS restriction proposal. Within the Circular Business Lab for Electronics initiative, RISE is making a concerted effort for the industry's circular development and use of electronic products.

Feel free to contact us if you would like advice on PFAS substitution or want to find out if your products contain PFAS!