Halogen-free plastics without PFAS
Concerns regarding the environment, human health, and safety associated with halogen-containing materials have placed significant regulatory and supply pressures on the fluoropolymer industry. With SABIC’s halogen-free, easily extrudable amorphous SILTEM copolymers, Plastoplan now offers a halogen-free alternative within its extensive portfolio of high-performance plastics. SILTEM offers excellent high-temperature performance, good processability, and durability.
Non-halogenated alternatives to fluoropolymers
Fluoropolymers such as ETFE, FEP, and PVDF are used in a variety of applications due to their durability (heat, chemical, and UV resistance) and flexibility. However, many of these products have come under regulatory and public scrutiny worldwide due to the use of fluorinated compounds (PFAS) and their negative environmental impact. With SABIC’s SILTEM, we offer innovative non-halogenated materials that can replace fluoropolymers in a wide range of industries and applications: in transportation, aerospace, and telecommunications cables—to name just a few examples.
SILTEM products are amorphous polyetherimide-siloxane (PEI-Si) copolymers that are easy to extrude. The combination of silicone elastomer (Si) with ULTEM™ (PEI) provides flexibility at high continuous operating temperatures.
Advantages of SILTEM Resins
Non-fluorinated, with no added PFAS
Flame-resistant and tested in accordance with FAR 25.853
Complies with various transportation and infrastructure regulations
Process and cost efficiency (compared to fluoropolymers)
Easy to work with
Low corrosivity, improved operating costs
Low density, reduction in component weight
Durable in harsh environments
Durability at high operating temperatures
UV-resistant
Good chemical resistance
Extremely durable in high-radiation environments
