Litilit: Lasers as an Alternative to PFAS Coatings
Litilit's femtosecond lasers could replace PFAS-containing coatings in certain applications. Targeted micro- and nanostructuring creates water-repellent surfaces without the need to apply fluorinated chemicals.
PFAS are used in numerous coatings due to their water-, oil-, and dirt-repellent properties. However, because of their long persistence in the environment and potential health risks, these so-called “forever chemicals” are facing increasing regulatory pressure. According to laser manufacturer Litilit, femtosecond lasers can offer an alternative to PFAS-based coatings in certain applications. The lasers generate ultrashort light pulses that can be used to precisely structure surfaces on the micro- and nanometer scales. This creates water-repellent properties without the need to apply a fluorinated coating. The process is suitable for metal, glass, and stone surfaces, among others, as well as for applications where water, ice formation, or corrosion play a role.
Laser Structuring Instead of Fluorine-Containing Coatings
According to Litilit, one of the biggest challenges currently lies in the availability of the technology. For manufacturers to be able to replace PFAS-containing coatings on a larger scale, femtosecond lasers would need to be more cost-effective and easier to integrate into production processes. The company is therefore building a new manufacturing facility in Vilnius with a planned annual capacity of up to 3,000 femtosecond lasers. In addition to PFAS-free surfaces, Litilit sees further applications for the technology, such as decorative texturing of metal components or color-adding surface treatment without paints or printing inks.
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