WHAT ARE PFAS?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large class of synthetic chemicals that are extremely persistent and are therefore also known as “forever chemicals”. Many people encounter PFAS indirectly in everyday life, for example in coated non-stick pans, which are often known by the brand name Teflon. Due to their special properties, PFAS are used, among other things, to make products water-, grease-, dirt- or heat-resistant.

The problem: PFAS are very difficult to break down in the environment. They can remain in soil and water for years or decades, travel over long distances and accumulate in plants and animals.

People and animals can absorb these substances through water, food and the environment. PFAS can accumulate in the body and may affect the immune system, liver, metabolism, reproduction and development, among other things.

Their exceptional persistence and widespread distribution make PFAS a burden on the environment, animals and people. This is why the following question is becoming increasingly important: How can we avoid PFAS in our everyday lives and reduce their release into the environment?

WHY ARE PFAS USED IN ADHESIVES?

PFAS are used in certain anaerobic adhesives to optimise the coefficient of friction between screws and threads.

But what does the coefficient of friction actually mean? Put simply, it describes how strongly two surfaces resist sliding against each other. A low, precisely controlled coefficient of friction ensures that less tightening torque is lost to friction when a screw is tightened.

This has a direct impact on the preload:

This allows the screw connection to be assembled in a controlled and reproducible manner.

 

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