Replacement Chemicals
Safety of EPA-approved
replacement FTS 6:2

Could the surface finishing industry go back to using PFOS?

No. The surface finishing industry is the only industry to have a ban on PFOS use in an EPA regulation. Although the industry was phasing out its use of PFOS for years, the ban came into full effect in 2015.

What are plating facilities using instead of PFOS?

The industry now relies on safer, more advanced fluorinated products for chromium fume suppression. NASF members are working with their suppliers to find effective non-fluorinated alternatives as chromium fume suppressants.

More information about non-PFOS mist suppressants:
Non-PFOS, Permanent Mist Suppressants for Hard Chromium Plating, Decorative Chromium Plating and Chromic Etch Applications

Are fume suppressants in use by plating facilities safe?

Yes. The primary chromium fume suppressant is a fluorinated compound (referred to as 6:2 FTS), which is rapidly eliminated from the body, has low toxicity, and is not bioaccumulative.

Summary of Toxicology Studies on 6:2 FTS and Detailed Technical Support Documents