New research shows PFAS-free alternatives are widely available in electronics, according to chemicals watchdog ChemSec.
The study reveals that PFAS-free solutions can substitute toxic forever chemicals throughout the electronics manufacturing process. This applies to every step from printed circuit boards and semiconductor components to coatings, cables and connectors.
“PFAS are the dark side of the AI boom, the chip industry is hooked on them like a drug. But there is no need to go cold turkey. Safer alternatives are already available across a wide range of electronics applications,” said Anne-Sofie Bäcker, ChemSec’s executive director.
(Continues below…)
Featured report
Some key findings from the research include:
- Major multinationals are removing PFAS from their products in response to customer demand
- Others are changing their marketing of products to align with customer preference
- In cooling fluids, currently in focus because of data centres, there is intense technological innovation of PFAS-free technologies
- Companies see the EU’s forthcoming PFAS ban as an opportunity for innovation to gain a competitive advantage.
When the EU announced its plan for wide-ranging restrictions on PFAS, major manufacturers claimed semiconductor manufacturing was “simply not possible” without them. However, this new research shows PFAS-free alternatives are widely available in electronics. Companies have already innovated a range of commercial alternatives for printed circuit boards, insulation, coatings and films, wires, connectors and filters.
“The microchip industry needs the incentive of a universal PFAS restriction to take the final steps to substitution”
ChemSec’s recent survey of the 10 biggest manufacturers found most had plans to increase production. Many framed their investments around the “AI revolution”, because of the role PFAS play in semiconductor production. Increased production threatens to undermining moves to restrict PFAS in Europe, the UK and parts of the US.
“In many cases substitution is possible and viable alternatives exist. But the microchip industry needs the incentive of a universal PFAS restriction to take the final steps to substitution,” Anne-Sofie Bäckar said.
Download the full report here:
Seek and You Shall Find: Alternatives to PFAS in Electronics
