AGC Unveils Groundbreaking Surfactant-Free Fluoroelastomer Technology for Advanced Applications
AGC Inc., a world-renowned manufacturer of glass, chemicals, and high-tech materials, is proud to announce the commercial launch of an innovative new addition to its AFLAS™ FFKM fluoroelastomer series—a surfactant- and fluorinated polymerization solvent-free grade, internally referred to as the SF grades (the “Products”). This marks a significant technological advancement in the development of fluoroelastomers, addressing both environmental and performance-related demands from increasingly sustainability-conscious markets.
The newly developed SF grades are manufactured entirely without the use of surfactants or fluorinated polymerization solvents, which have long been considered indispensable components in the production of high-performance FFKM (perfluoroelastomer) materials. These materials are typically used in extreme environments that require exceptional chemical, thermal, and plasma resistance, such as in semiconductor manufacturing, oil and gas exploration, and critical medical applications.
Through the application of AGC’s proprietary Surfactant-Free & Fluoro Solvent-Free Technology (the “Technology”), the company has overcome long-standing technical challenges and has succeeded in mass-producing these next-generation fluoroelastomers. The Technology reflects AGC’s deep expertise in polymer chemistry and represents the culmination of decades of R&D in fluoropolymer synthesis. It also aligns with AGC Group’s broader commitment to sustainability, innovation, and technological leadership under its corporate philosophy, “Look Beyond.”
Addressing a Critical Market Need
Historically, surfactants and fluorinated polymerization solvents have been essential in fluoroelastomer production due to their role in stabilizing polymer emulsions and enhancing monomer reactivity and polymerization efficiency. These substances facilitate the uniform dispersion of fluorinated monomers during emulsion polymerization, which is essential to achieving the high-quality molecular structure required for the performance standards expected from FFKM elastomers.
However, growing awareness of environmental risks and regulatory pressure—particularly from sectors such as semiconductors and electronics manufacturing—have accelerated the need for cleaner production methods. Customers are now demanding materials that are free from persistent fluorinated compounds used in the manufacturing process, even if they are not present in the final product. For example, companies in the semiconductor industry are increasingly evaluating the environmental footprint across the entire supply chain, including upstream material processing.
AGC’s response to this shift is not merely reactive—it is transformative. By developing and deploying a new proprietary polymerization method that completely eliminates the use of both surfactants and fluorinated polymerization solvents, the company is not only addressing a pressing need in the market but also setting a new benchmark for sustainable polymer manufacturing.
A Technological Breakthrough in Fluoroelastomer Production
Achieving high-performance FFKM materials without these legacy additives has long been a formidable technical challenge. Attempts to eliminate surfactants and fluorinated solvents often resulted in reduced polymer stability, suboptimal mechanical strength, or compromised thermal and chemical resistance.
AGC’s breakthrough centers on its proprietary “Surfactant-Free & Fluoro Solvent-Free Technology,” which enables polymerization of high-purity, high-molecular-weight FFKM elastomers without the need for conventional processing aids. This innovation preserves the superior durability, elasticity, and resistance characteristics required for critical sealing and insulation applications.
Initially, the Technology will be applied to high-temperature-resistant grades of FFKM fluoroelastomers. These materials will be part of the existing AFLAS™ FFKM product family, renowned for its industry-leading performance in plasma-rich environments, such as those found in semiconductor etching processes.
Product Advantages and Performance Parity
The new SF grades offer performance on par with, or even superior to, conventional FFKM elastomers that rely on surfactants and fluorinated solvents. Key benefits include:
- Exceptional resistance to chemicals, heat, and plasma—critical for high-precision industrial applications.
- High purity levels, essential for cleanroom and semiconductor uses.
- Extended maintenance intervals for sealing components due to improved resistance to degradation.
- Enhanced environmental credentials, supporting customers’ ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals.
These qualities make the SF grades an ideal solution for mission-critical sealing in semiconductor manufacturing equipment, where material degradation can lead to costly downtime and reduced product yield. The use of high-purity materials also reduces the risk of contamination in sensitive processes, such as etching and deposition.
Expanding the Product Portfolio and Applications
With the initial launch of the high-temperature-resistant grade, AGC will begin commercial sales starting this month. Over the coming months, the company plans to expand this Technology to additional types of FFKM fluoroelastomers. This expansion will include grades optimized for:
- Chemical process industries
- Vacuum and plasma processing
- Oil & gas equipment
- Healthcare and pharmaceutical systems
This strategic move aims to offer a full portfolio of environmentally conscious FFKM materials that cater to diverse application requirements while maintaining AGC’s reputation for performance and reliability.
Applications Across High-Stakes Industries
The AFLAS™ FFKM series is widely recognized for delivering one of the highest levels of durability among fluoroelastomers. Its resilience makes it indispensable in:
- Semiconductor Manufacturing: The SF grades are designed to withstand the harsh chemical and plasma environments of etching chambers and deposition tools. Their stability leads to improved uptime, reduced contamination, and lower maintenance frequency.
- Oil and Gas: The series excels in extreme-temperature and high-pressure environments where chemical exposure is severe. Its long life and reliability minimize operational risks and equipment failure.
- Healthcare and Pharma: FFKM’s high purity and inertness make it suitable for seals and gaskets in medical devices and fluid handling systems, where contamination is not an option.
Toward a Sustainable Future
AGC’s introduction of surfactant- and solvent-free fluoroelastomers marks a new era in high-performance materials engineering. By removing environmentally persistent substances from the production process, the company is helping to minimize the ecological footprint of industrial materials without sacrificing quality or performance.
This achievement aligns with broader industry trends toward greener supply chains, particularly in high-tech sectors where end users are increasingly scrutinizing material provenance and environmental impact. AGC’s breakthrough reflects a proactive commitment to sustainability and a deep understanding of the evolving demands of the global marketplace.
