PFAS, or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide range of industrial applications for decades. These substances are known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, making them incredibly useful in manufacturing. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about their impact on health and the environment. As industries continue to rely on PFAS, understanding their uses, associated risks, and the evolving regulatory landscape is essential.
In this blog, we’ll explore the industrial applications of PFAS, the safety concerns surrounding them, and how global regulations are changing the way companies like Matregenix approach these substances.
PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals that include compounds like PFOA, PFOS, GenX, and many others. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” they don’t easily break down in the environment or in the human body. This durability is both their strength and their biggest concern.
Because of their unique chemical properties resistance to heat, water, oil, and friction—PFAS have found applications in a wide range of industries:
PFAS are used as lubricants and additives in high-performance machinery, especially in environments exposed to high temperatures and chemicals. Their non-stick and low-friction nature makes them ideal for various components and coatings.
In the electronics industry, PFAS are used in semiconductor production, where ultra-clean and precise conditions are necessary. Their chemical stability and resistance to heat make them critical in manufacturing microchips and circuit boards.
PFAS are commonly applied to waterproof and stain-resistant clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Industrial-scale textile treatments often rely on PFAS-based coatings to enhance performance and durability.
In both aerospace and automotive sectors, PFAS are used in hydraulic fluids, fuel systems, gaskets, and insulation materials. They help components withstand extreme conditions, improving safety and longevity.
PFAS-based surfactants are used in oil recovery and drilling operations due to their chemical resistance and surface activity. They assist in managing fluids and reducing friction in pipelines.
While PFAS are incredibly useful, their long-term presence in the environment has raised alarms. Research suggests that prolonged exposure to certain types of PFAS may lead to health issues, including:
Hormonal disruption
Immune system effects
Increased cholesterol levels
Certain types of cancers
Because PFAS do not break down easily, they accumulate in the environment and in living organisms over time. This has prompted scientists and regulatory bodies to call for better safety practices and alternatives.
Governments around the world are starting to take strong actions to monitor, reduce, or eliminate PFAS usage, particularly the more harmful types like PFOA and PFOS.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced several steps under its PFAS Strategic Roadmap, including:
Restricting the use of certain PFAS
Requiring companies to report PFAS emissions
Introducing drinking water limits for PFAS chemicals
The EU is taking an even stricter stance. Under REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals), proposals are in place to restrict nearly all uses of PFAS unless deemed essential.
Countries like Japan and Australia are also reviewing their chemical safety frameworks, aiming to phase out PFAS gradually and encourage safer alternatives.
At Matregenix, we prioritize innovation with responsibility. Our materials and solutions often rely on advanced polymers and engineered substances some of which may include PFAS-based components for enhanced performance. However, we are fully committed to:
Evaluating safer alternatives
Staying compliant with international regulations
Implementing transparent supply chain practices
Reducing environmental impact through sustainable product design
Our R&D teams continuously assess materials for their environmental and health impact, ensuring that our innovations don’t compromise safety.
The growing awareness around PFAS is pushing industries to seek greener and safer alternatives. Companies are investing in non-fluorinated coatings, bio-based polymers, and green chemistry techniques to reduce dependence on PFAS while maintaining high performance.
This shift is not just about compliance it’s about building a sustainable future where industrial progress aligns with environmental responsibility.
PFAS have played a crucial role in industrial innovation, but their environmental and health risks can't be ignored. As regulations tighten and awareness grows, industries must adapt quickly and responsibly. At Matregenix, we see this as an opportunity to lead with innovation and sustainability developing advanced materials that are both high-performing and safe for the world we share.
Want to learn more about how Matregenix is creating next-generation materials with safety and sustainability in mind? Contact us today or explore our product solutions.