What if PFAS-free* Composite Molding Materials Were Possible?
Discover PMP film as a high-performance, PFAS-free* alternative to FEP, ETFE, and PTFE in composite molding
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 molding 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 molding. 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 interesting alternative for high-performance uses.
The combination of good heat and chemical resistance makes PMP films a good choice for harsh environments and many industrial applications. PMP can withstand high processing temperatures (up to ~220°C) during heat curing processes in composite molding while maintaining its dimensional stability and mechanical integrity under thermal stress.
Another advantage of PMP films is their low surface adhesion and release properties comparable to fluoropolymers, which is essential for easy mold release and clean surfaces without defects or significant post-treatments. And their chemical resistance against high-performance resins and solvents used in composite molding processes as well as their compatibility with autoclave construction ensures durability, compatibility and reliably performance under pressure.
There is yet another advantage of PMP in composite molding. PMP film has very high oxygen permeability which allows 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 used in composite lay-ups today.
In addition to the PMP film, Saint-Gobain® Tape Solutions also offers a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape that can be used for edging protection of the tool, lining the tool as a release, and as a seaming and splicing tape for building a layup. The film can be used in composite molding processes at 180°C (356°F), which is a typical curing temperature for high performance resins.
PMP films: a long-term alternative to PFAS in many applications
For some applications where ultimate performance is required, PFAS materials may still be the materials of choice. But with health and environmental concerns, regulatory restrictions, PFAS supply chain risks and engineers who steadily improve the performance of PMP films, they are about to support sustainability goals in aerospace, automotive, and industrial composites.
Offering excellent performance comparable to fluoropolymers while being non-toxic, recyclable, disposable and FDA-compliant, PMP films can be a safer choice for manufacturers, workers and the environment. These properties 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 far not limited to industrial applications and composite molding. They are currently used in demanding applications such as:
- Medical and lab equipment, especially where sterilization (autoclaving) is needed
- Microwave and cookware components
- Gas-permeable packaging
- Speaker cones and ultrasonic transducers
- Optical components like lenses and windows, especially in the terahertz range
- Non-stick release films and papers
Enhance composite molding with PMP films
The question is no longer “What if PFAS-free* composite molding materials were possible?”—they are here. Now, the focus shifts to: “How can you maximize 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 molding and industrial processes today with innovative, PFAS-free* PMP films.