PFAS in igus products?

In the subgroup of perfluoroalkyl substances (non-polymers), the compounds perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) have been studied the most thoroughly. Like many PFAS, these two compounds are persistent and can now be found in the environment, the food chain and in people. PFOA and PFOS have a proven negative impact on health. Together with PFHxs and PFNA, they account for 90% of the current contamination with PFAS.

In the subgroup of polymers, a distinction is made between fluoropolymers/fluoroplastics and polymers with fluorinated side chains. The fluoropolymers consist of a carbon chain with directly attached fluorine atoms. This makes them so strong that they cannot break down into toxic substances. According to the OECD, fluoropolymers are "products of low concern", non-toxic and non-bioaccumulative, i.e. they cannot accumulate in organisms. The only danger is the possible use of toxic additives during production in the form of emulsifiers. Fluoropolymers are used, for example, in coatings, seals and cable insulation. PTFE is a fluoropolymer.

Polymers with fluorinated side chains also consist of a carbon chain, but with lateral carbon chains to which the F-atoms are first attached. As a result, these polymers are less strong, and there is a risk of losing the side chains. They are used, for example, as impregnating agents.

Current legal situation for PFAS in plain bearings

Date: 20th April 2023

The use of PFOS has been largely banned since 2006 and that of PFOA since July 2020. Our certification can be found here. Five European countries (Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) submitted a proposal for a general restriction of PFAS, which was published by ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) on 7th February 2023. This proposal is a first step in a long regulatory process and will be examined by all stakeholders.

The first phase of consultation by all stakeholders took place from 22nd March until 22nd September 2023. The proposed PFAS regulation would likely come into force in EU member countries in 2026 at the earliest. Transitional periods of up to 13 years are possible from the time they come into force.

US: The EPA has issued a final regulation adding five PFAS substances to the list of over 170 PFAS substances that are reportable under the Toxics Release Inventory ("TRI"), a central database for public reporting of chemicals. Fluoropolymers are not included in the TRI list.