AGC Revolutionizes Fluoropolymer Production with Surfactant-Free Technology

AGC, a global leader in materials science, has achieved a significant breakthrough with the development of a surfactant-free manufacturing process for fluoropolymers. This innovative technology addresses a critical industry challenge and positions AGC as a frontrunner in sustainable materials production. By eliminating the need for surfactants, AGC has not only enhanced the environmental profile of fluoropolymer manufacturing but also paved the way for a more stable and reliable supply chain.

Traditionally, the production of fluoropolymers involved emulsion polymerization with fluorinated surfactants to facilitate the process. The manufacturing industry has witnessed a pronounced shift towards sustainable and environmentally responsible practices in recent years, driving a significant surge in demand for production technologies that eliminate the reliance on fluorinated surfactants. However, alternative technologies have faced challenges, including the formation of fluorinated byproducts and reduced product performance compared to conventional methods. AGC's breakthrough technology addresses these challenges by enabling the production of fluoropolymers with the same high-performance properties as those made using traditional methods, but without the need for surfactants. This innovative approach significantly reduces the generation of fluorinated byproducts, offering a more sustainable and efficient manufacturing solution.

In line with its medium-term management plan, AGC plus-2026, AGC Group is committed to enhancing its sustainability management and generating three core social values: Blue Planet (achieving a sustainable global environment), Innovation (fostering an innovative future society), and Well-being (promoting a safe and secure living environment). By advancing and implementing this technology, AGC Group aims to deliver safe, reliable, and essential products while making significant contributions towards building a sustainable society.

Fluoropolymers play a critical role across various sectors, including semiconductors, automotive, electronics, and energy, and are essential for sustainable societal development. The new technology being developed promises to produce fluoropolymers with the same exceptional properties as conventional products, such as heat resistance, cold resistance, chemical resistance, and durability. This technology is currently under development, with plans to initiate industrial-scale production by 2030, ensuring that these high-performance materials continue to support innovation and sustainability across multiple industries.

In conclusion, AGC Inc. is pioneering a groundbreaking process for manufacturing fluoropolymers without surfactants, aligning with the growing demand for more sustainable production methods. This innovative technology not only matches the performance of traditional fluoropolymers, including heat and chemical resistance, but also significantly reduces the generation of fluorinated byproducts. With applications spanning semiconductors, automotive, electronics, and energy, AGC’s technology is poised to support the advancement of a carbon-neutral and digital society. AGC is committed to strengthening sustainability and creating social value, reinforcing its role in fostering a safer and more sustainable future.