With increasing regulatory pressure on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and growing consumer demand for safer, more eco-friendly packaging, fluorine-free oil repellents have become the new frontier in the paper chemicals industry. These solutions offer excellent oil and grease resistance without the environmental and health risks associated with fluorinated compounds.
Why Replace Fluorinated Oil Repellents?
PFAS compounds, traditionally used in food-grade and industrial grease-resistant papers, are known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic properties. In response, countries around the world—including the EU, US, and China—are tightening regulations around PFAS usage in food contact materials.
This regulatory shift has spurred innovation in fluorine-free barrier chemistry, with new-generation oil repellents offering high performance and compliance with global safety standards such as:
- EU Regulation 10/2011 (plastic food contact materials)
- FDA 176.170 / 176.180 (paper and paperboard in contact with aqueous and fatty foods)
- China GB 9685 / GB 4806.8
What Are Fluorine-Free Oil Repellents?
Fluorine-free oil repellents typically use natural waxes, synthetic polymers, and inorganic barrier components to form a hydrophobic and oleophobic film on paper surfaces. These materials provide excellent resistance to oils and fats while being fully recyclable and compostable.
Our product series: Fluorine-Free Series, includes two high-performance, eco-friendly options:
| Product | Key Advantage | Target Application |
|---|---|---|
| Azfc®90F | High oil resistance (Kit level ≥ 9) and thermal stability (up to 100°C) | Food wrap paper, microwave paper, burger wrappers |
| Azfc®60F | Cost-effective alternative with good oil holdout under ambient conditions | Paper bags, liners, takeaway packaging |
Both products are fluorine-free, formaldehyde-free, and compliant with food safety regulations.
Key Advantages of Fluorine-Free Oil Repellents
- PFAS-Free – Safe for direct food contact
- Compostable & Recyclable – Promotes circular economy
- Low Migration – Excellent barrier without affecting printability
- Heat Resistance – Suitable for high-temperature filling
- Compatible with Paper Furnish – Minimal interference with coating or sizing systems
Application Process
Fluorine-free oil repellents can be applied via surface sizing, coating, or spray application. The film-forming structure allows oil resistance without requiring oven curing or special drying conditions. For optimal performance:
- Maintain surface sizing temperature between 40–60°C
- Ensure uniform coverage with film weight ~0.8–1.5 g/m²
- Can be combined with cationic starch or AKD for dual resistance (water + oil)
Market Outlook
As fast-food chains, packaging converters, and paper mills shift toward PFAS-free solutions, fluorine-free technologies are positioned for rapid growth. North America and Europe lead adoption due to regulatory pressure, while Asia-Pacific markets are catching up through voluntary compliance and brand-driven sustainability goals.
Learn More
Interested in switching to safer, PFAS-free barrier solutions? Explore our fluorine-free oil repellent products here.
