Fluorine-free solid lubricant alternatives to PTFE and PFAS-containing additives. WS₂, MoS₂, and hBN deliver equal or superior EP, AW, and AF performance with full EU REACH and US EPA compliance.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) has been widely used as a friction modifier and anti-wear additive in lubricants. However, PTFE is a fluoropolymer — a member of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family. Regulatory actions on both sides of the Atlantic are forcing formulators to address PFAS content in their products:
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) universal PFAS restriction proposal covers all fluoropolymers including PTFE. Expected to restrict use in lubricant applications by 2026–2027.
EPA's Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) PFAS reporting rules and expanding state-level restrictions are increasing regulatory burden and liability for PTFE-containing products.
OEMs, food producers, and industrial customers are proactively removing PFAS from their supply chains ahead of regulations — creating market pressure on lubricant formulators.
Proposed PFAS disclosure requirements in the EU and US will require labeling of lubricants containing fluoropolymers, impacting market perception and sales.
| Property | WS₂ | MoS₂ | hBN | PTFE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COF (dry) | 0.03 | 0.05–0.10 | 0.15–0.25 | 0.04–0.10 |
| Max Temp (air) | 650°C | 350°C | 900°C | 260°C |
| Load Bearing (PSI) | 300,000+ | 250,000 | 50,000 | 30,000 |
| PFAS Content | None | None | None | Fluoropolymer |
| EP Performance | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Poor |
| REACH Compliant | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Under restriction |
In EP and AW applications, WS₂ and MoS₂ outperform PTFE on every measurable dimension: lower COF, higher load capacity, higher temperature stability, and better EP properties. The only formulation parameter to re-optimize during reformulation is treat rate and particle size selection for your specific system.
The right replacement depends on your application requirements:
You need maximum EP performance, the lowest possible COF, operation above 260°C, or compliance in humidity-sensitive environments. Best for premium engine oils, gear oils, and aerospace lubricants.
Application is terrestrial, cost-sensitive, and requires proven EP performance in greases or gear oils. Best cost-performance replacement for standard industrial lubricants.
Application requires electrical insulation, food-grade compatibility, temperatures above 350°C, white color, or chemical inertness. Best for food processing, electrical equipment, and high-temperature applications.
Highest-performance PTFE replacement. Lower COF, higher load capacity, wider temperature range — with zero PFAS content. Direct drop-in for grease and coating reformulation.
View full specifications →Cost-effective PTFE replacement for industrial greases and EP lubricants. Proven EP and AW performance with full REACH compliance.
View full specifications →White, electrically insulating PTFE alternative for food-grade lubricants, electrical equipment greases, and high-temperature applications where black solid lubricants are unsuitable.
View full specifications →Our technical team works directly with lubricant formulators to optimize particle size, concentration, and carrier system for your application.