Green PFAS-free micro porous membranes for fabric lamination

PFAS (perfluoro and polyfluoroalkyl substances) ,normally known as "permanent chemicals" , covers tens of thousands of compounds, including PFOA and PFOS. These chemicals are widely used in non-stick pan coatings, waterproof textiles, fire-fighting foams and electronic components etc.

Due to its non-degradable and highly bio-accumulative features, and high association with cancer, immune system damage and reproductive toxicity, it was prohibited by multiple industries gradually , the elimination of fluorinated compounds has become a top priority. This is particularly evident in the textile industry, where fluorine-free waterproofing, PFAS-free packaging and non-fluorine materials are becoming new industry standard.

In the waterproof and breathable membrane industry, high-performance PFAS-free membranes are being actively developed. For example, Gore-Tex has replaced ePTFE with ePE. In addition, other high-performance materials have also matured and become emerging solutions to replace of PTFE .

1. PP (polypropylene) microporous membrane:

The single-layer film uses special stretching technology to form a micro porous structure with a moisture permeability of up to 10K g/㎡/day (B-1 method) and a water resistance volume of up to 10,000 mmh2o. And there is no PFAS and chemical solvents during processing, the only combustion by-products are carbon dioxide and water, moreover ,the film is light weight for its low density , and is mainly used for outdoor clothing and sports equipment.

2. Nano-fiber spinning membrane

The membrane uses electrospun "nanofiber" technology, which has waterproof, breathable and tensile properties, and can replace traditional fluorinated PTFE membranes. It not only has excellent moisture permeability, but also has slightly lower hydrostatic pressure resistance. Widely used in outdoor clothing that requires high breathability but low request of water resistance .

3. Polyurethane microporous membrane

It is made with polyurethane (PU) as a substrate and through a wet phase separation processing to form microporous structure with a pore size usually between 0.1 and 10 microns. These interconnected micropores allow water vapor molecules to pass through freely, effectively expelling moisture (sweat) and providing a dry and comfortable wearing experience. At the same time, these pores are small enough to block liquid water and larger particulate matter (such as dust), providing a reliable water/pollution barrier. The main application areas include outdoor sportswear (hard-shell jackets, ski suits, mountaineering equipment), protective clothing, military uniforms, medical protective clothing, and footwear parts.

In addition, the EU's comprehensive ban on the use of PFAS (perfluoroalkyl compounds)(which will take effect in 2025) and China's Plastic Pollution Control Action Plan (which requires a recycled material content of ≥30% by 2026) 38 are accelerating technological transformation. The global environmental protection film industry is rapidly transforming into a three-way model of "fluorine-free → bio-based → recycling", and technological breakthroughs and regulatory compliance have become core competitive advantages.

Jiaxing Nanxiong polymer keeps on developing and moving , nowadays , GRS TPU /TPEE films , bio-based TPU/PU /TPEE films , PP micro porous film and Polyurethane microporous membrane are in production for times , and got good feedback from our clients .