【Frontiers in HaiChuan Chemical Technology】Asahi Kasei develops PFAS-free PA66 materials

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As of January 29, 2026, with the EU and the United States imposing increasingly strict regulations on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), manufacturers in various industries are urgently seeking high-performance materials that can meet evolving environmental and safety standards without compromising technical performance. Recently, Asahi Kasei announced that it has successfully developed a new PFAS-free polyamide material designed for demanding low-friction applications. For decades, engineering plastics have relied on PFAS additives to achieve low friction and wear resistance. As regulatory pressures increase, industries ranging from automobiles to industrial machinery are seeking alternative solutions. Asahi Kasei’s newly developed PFAS-free polyamide material was created to address this shift, combining environmental responsibility with the high-performance material properties required for next-generation components. This new polyamide material boasts excellent low-friction and sliding properties, which are crucial for applications where lubricants or greases cannot be used. It can maintain stable performance under high loads and high temperatures. These properties make it an ideal choice for mechanical parts such as gears, chain guides, and other sliding components that must operate reliably in a dry environment. To meet the diverse needs of manufacturers worldwide, Asahi Kasei offers non-reinforced and reinforced grades of PFAS-free polyamide materials. These options enable engineers to find the optimal balance between strength, stiffness, and durability depending on the specific application. Thanks to its unique processing control technology, Asahi Kasei can further customize the properties of materials. Custom formulations can optimize filler content, heat resistance, stiffness, and performance in humid environments, thereby providing design flexibility and helping customers make a smooth transition to PFAS-free solutions without compromising product performance. Yoshitaka Hori, Senior General Manager of Asahi Kasei LEONA™ PA66 Business, said, “As industries around the world gradually phase out PFAS, we are keenly aware of the strong market demand for materials that not only meet regulatory requirements but also enhance durability and efficiency standards.” Our new PFAS-free polyamide material is designed precisely for this purpose. We are pleased to help our customers create safer and more sustainable products. ”