CAMBRIDGE, UK – "Forever chemicals", or PFAS, are coming under increasing regulatory pressure globally as concerns over the negative effects of PFAS on human health and the environment are mounting. In their brand new report, "Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 2024: Emerging Applications, Alternatives, Regulations", IDTechEx dives deeply to explore the future trajectory of PFAS in five key emerging applications: thermal management for data centers, sustainable food packaging, electric vehicles, low-loss materials for 5G, and the hydrogen economy.

Introducing the "forever chemical" family – PFAS

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and refers to synthetic chemical compounds that contain multiple fluorine atoms attached to an alkyl chain. The broad definition of PFAS by the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development encompasses nearly 5,000 unique chemicals, including PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE.

Unsurprisingly, the applications of different PFAS chemicals are nearly as broad as the chemical family itself. Depending on the specific chemical, PFAS are used in industries including semiconductor manufacturing, healthcare, non-stick cookware, and firefighting foams.

Why are concerns over PFAS rising?

Why are PFAS now coming under increased scrutiny? The colloquialism "forever chemicals" hints at a key issue for PFAS: its persistence in humans, wildlife, and the environment. Not only is PFAS persistent, but they can also be found even in isolated areas; thus, humans can be exposed to PFAS through a variety of sources. Now, scientific evidence is growing that, depending on different factors, continued exposure to specific PFAS may lead to negative health effects, such as increased risk of cancer, developmental delays, and hormonal issues (per the US EPA and the OECD).

A new regulatory landscape changing the trajectory of PFAS

With growing concerns over the impact of PFAS on human health and the environment, there are pushes for increased regulations on the use of certain groups of PFAS. Several important regions in the global economy are considering or adopting universal PFAS restrictions, including the European Union (which introduced its universal PFAS restriction proposal in 2023) and the US states of Maine and Minnesota. With such a complicated landscape of PFAS regulations potentially developing worldwide, it is essential for businesses to understand existing and proposed regulations for PFAS to understand its potential effect on them.

Alternatives for PFAS in emerging high-tech applications: a critical consideration

As such, with broad legislation potentially impacting PFAS in countless different applications, it is essential for businesses to consider potential alternatives for PFAS.

Heavy regulations on PFAS would be particularly impactful in emerging high-tech applications. In these less-established markets, PFAS can sometimes act as key technology enablers. PFAS could be used as membranes in fuel cells, as coolants for immersion cooling in data centers, as insulating materials in high-voltage cables, or as moisture-repelling coatings in molded fiber packaging. Therefore, identifying replacements for PFAS in those applications will be important for the future growth of those emerging areas.

For businesses manufacturing or using PFAS in high-tech fields, IDTechEx’s new report, "Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 2024: Emerging Applications, Alternatives, Regulations", not only identifies the specific impact of different PFAS regulations in key emerging application areas but also identifies potential alternatives for PFAS in these areas. Covering a broad range of growing yet critical future markets, the five main emerging technology areas analyzed by IDTechEx are:

• Membranes in the hydrogen economy
• Thermal management for data centers
• Electric vehicles
• Low-loss materials for 5G
• Sustainable food packaging

There are many alternatives that could potentially replace PFAS in these emerging applications. These alternatives may be at different stages of technology readiness and market maturity, but by analyzing their status, suppliers, advantages, disadvantages, etc., a critical assessment of these non-PFAS alternatives' market potential can be developed. Some alternatives have the potential to substantially impact their application areas, while others have a much longer road to market penetration that includes solving major technical and economic challenges. Regardless, for anyone connected to emerging industries, the pressure is increasing to have a clear understanding of how future PFAS regulations may impact nascent high-tech industries but also what commercial and developing alternative materials are available to replace PFAS in these industries.

For more information on the new IDTechEx report "Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 2024: Emerging Applications, Alternatives, Regulations", including downloadable sample pages, please visit www.IDTechEx.com/PFAS 

SAN DIEGO – KIC, a renowned pioneer in thermal process and temperature measurement solutions for electronics manufacturing, is pleased to announce the appointment of PIT Equipment Services, LLC, led by Don Dennison, as its representative for New York, New Jersey, and Eastern Pennsylvania. With this strategic partnership, KIC aims to strengthen its presence in the region and continue its mission of delivering innovative solutions to the electronics manufacturing industry.

Don Dennison, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the electronics industry, will play a vital role in promoting KIC’s next generation of solutions including the latest Thermal Analysis System software.

PIT Equipment Services, LLC has earned accolades for its outstanding performance in the electronics industry. With back-to-back prestigious Global Technology Awards for Rep of the Year for North America, PIT Equipment Services, LLC stands as a trusted partner to electronic assembly firms in the New York, New Jersey, and Eastern Pennsylvania areas.

Established in 1988, PIT Equipment Services, LLC has built a reputation for assisting electronics assembly companies. Under Dennison's leadership, the company has remained dedicated to delivering exceptional service, leveraging extensive product knowledge, and fostering strategic customer relationships.

“We are honored to represent KIC,” said Don Dennison, President of PIT Equipment Services, LLC. “KIC’s innovative solutions have transformed what it means to profile, coming out with industry firsts for process setup, optimization, and inspection solutions in all soldering and curing applications on the electronics manufacturing production floor. We look forward to working closely with KIC to bring these cutting-edge technologies to our valued customers in the region.”

For more information about KIC and its revolutionary solutions, please visit www.kicthermal.com 

MADISON, AL – STI Electronics, Inc., a full-service organization providing training services, training materials, analytical/failure analysis, prototyping, and contract electronic manufacturing, is thrilled to announce the newest addition to its team, Edrick Young, who joins the company as a Mechanical Assembly Technician. With a “can do” attitude, Young brings a unique skill set that will significantly contribute to STI’s continued success in delivering high-quality products to its valued customers.

As a Mechanical Assembly Technician, Young will be responsible for a variety of crucial tasks, including hand assembly operations on both prototype and production printed circuit boards. His attention to detail and precision will ensure that every product meets our stringent quality standards.

“We are excited to welcome Edrick to the STI team,” said David Raby, President/CEO. “His attitude and dedication to quality make him an invaluable asset to our team. We are confident that Edrick will play a key role in driving our ongoing commitment to delivering superior products and services to our customers.”

Mr. Young joins STI at an exciting time of growth and innovation. With his expertise and enthusiasm, STI is well-positioned to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the electronics industry and providing unparalleled value to its customers.

MANASSAS, VA – ZESTRON, the leading global provider of high-precision cleaning products, services, and training solutions in the electronics manufacturing and semiconductor industries, will be presenting at the upcoming IPC APEX Expo on the critical challenges and innovations in high-voltage (HV) electronic assemblies within the realm of E-Mobility. The presentation, titled "EV Electronics: Design, Manufacturing, and Reliability Challenges," will feature industry expert Olaf Schoenfeld, Ph.D., and will take place from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM on Thursday, April 11.

In the rapidly evolving electric vehicle (EV) market, affordability and reliability are paramount. ZESTRON, a leading cleaning solutions provider, recognizes reliability's pivotal role in consumer acceptance and strongly emphasizes high-voltage (HV) electronic assemblies for E-Mobility.

HV units in EVs are susceptible to failures caused by particle-induced breakdowns and moisture ingress. ZESTRON offers innovative HV testing solutions to address these challenges, such as accelerated stress tests. These tests help identify risks before production, allowing manufacturers to optimize processes and mitigate potential failures. By leveraging analytical approaches and a comprehensive understanding of failure mechanisms such as AMP and ECM, ZESTRON supports manufacturers in reducing costs and enhancing efficiency in EV production.

To learn more about ZESTRON's cutting-edge solutions and how they can be tailored to your specific needs in HV and E-Mobility, explore the newest ZESTRON Cleaning Chronicle. Click here to access the Chronicle and delve deeper into our innovative approaches.

We value your insights and invite you to explore these innovations further at ZESTRON’s Booth #3620 during APEX 2024. Join our esteemed industry expert, Olaf Schoenfeld, Ph.D., to discuss how ZESTRON's expertise in HV and E-Mobility can be tailored to your specific needs. Reserve your meeting today. To schedule one on one time with Olaf at the upcoming APEX, click here.