What if PFAS-free* Composite Moulding Materials Were Possible?
Discover PMP film as a high-performance, PFAS-free* alternative to FEP, ETFE, and PTFE in composite moulding
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances—or better known as PFAS—play an important role in many industrial applications today. Due to their ultra-strong carbon-fluorine bonds, they are highly resistant to degradation and provide many other advantages which no other material combines in the same way. The issue is that these so-called “forever chemicals” don’t break down easily in the environment or the human body and can cause health and environmental concerns.
Currently, PFAS tapes are also used in composite moulding applications due to their special material properties. But what if new PFAS-free* technologies could be used as alternatives? Let’s dig deeper and find out together what the secret behind special PMP films is.
Key Features and Benefits of PMP Film
Polymethylpentene (PMP) is a transparent, lightweight, and heat-resistant plastic film known for its excellent performance in industrial applications such as composite moulding. Unlike PFAS-based materials, PMP films are free of fluorine-carbon bonds, eliminating PFAS-related risks. As a result, they are not currently subject to regulatory restrictions, making them an appealing alternative for high-performance uses.
The combination of good heat and chemical resistance makes PMP films an excellent choice for harsh environments and numerous industrial applications. PMP can endure high processing temperatures (up to ~220°C) during heat curing processes in composite moulding while maintaining its dimensional stability and mechanical integrity under thermal stress.
Another benefit of PMP films is their low surface adhesion and release properties comparable to fluoropolymers, which is crucial for easy mould release and clean surfaces without defects or significant post-treatments. Additionally, their chemical resistance against high-performance resins and solvents used in composite moulding processes, as well as their compatibility with autoclave construction, ensures durability, compatibility, and reliable performance under pressure.
There is yet another advantage of PMP in composite moulding. PMP film has very high oxygen permeability, allowing gases to pass through it during the autoclave process. Engineers are qualifying PMP to be used as a replacement for porous PTFE glass, a common PFAS material currently used in composite lay-ups.
In addition to the PMP film, Saint-Gobain® Tape Solutions also offers a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape that can be used for edge protection of the tool, lining the tool as a release, and as a seaming and splicing tape for building a lay-up. The film can be used in composite moulding processes at 180°C, which is a typical curing temperature for high-performance resins.
PMP films: a long-term alternative to PFAS in many applications
For certain applications where ultimate performance is essential, PFAS materials may still be the preferred choice. However, with health and environmental concerns, regulatory restrictions, PFAS supply chain risks, and engineers continuously improving the performance of PMP films, they are poised to support sustainability goals in aerospace, automotive, and industrial composites.
Providing excellent performance comparable to fluoropolymers while being non-toxic, recyclable, disposable, and FDA-compliant, PMP films can be a safer option for manufacturers, workers, and the environment. These characteristics can make PMP films the smarter and safer choice as a technically sound, more environmentally responsible, and cost-effective alternative to traditional fluoropolymer films.
These versatile materials are by no means restricted to industrial applications and composite moulding. They are currently utilised in demanding applications such as:
- Medical and laboratory equipment, particularly where sterilisation (autoclaving) is required
- Microwave and cookware components
- Gas-permeable packaging
- Speaker cones and ultrasonic transducers
- Optical components such as lenses and windows, especially in the terahertz range
- Non-stick release films and papers
Enhance composite moulding with PMP films
The question is no longer “What if PFAS-free* composite moulding materials were possible?”—they are here. Now, the focus shifts to: “How can you maximise the benefits of PFAS-free* PMP films?”
Navigating PFAS-related disposal & handling, supply chain challenges, and evolving regulations can be complex. Our technical experts are here to help you identify the ideal PMP film solution for your specific application.
Elevate your composite moulding and industrial processes today with innovative, PFAS-free* PMP films.