New Non-Fluorinated Resin Blends
While fluoropolymers are widely considered the standard for many wire and cable extrusion applications, several trends are prompting manufacturers to look for alternative materials. Although fluoropolymers are renowned for an excellent property profile – including chemical inertness, low friction, weatherability, inherent flame retardance and heat resistance – regulatory restrictions or outright bans on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a broad category that includes fluoropolymers, are being considered worldwide. As a result, major fluoropolymer manufacturers are leaving the market, reducing global availability. These supply constraints are being exacerbated by competing demands from industries like semiconductors and electric vehicles.