[Major Breakthrough] Japan Sekisui Chemical Develops Non-PFAS Pipeline Material for Semiconductor Manufacturing

Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. recently announced that it has made key advancements in achieving PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)-free technology in ultrapure water piping materials for advanced semiconductor manufacturing. The company plans to intensify its promotional efforts towards customers.

In the semiconductor and FPD manufacturing processes, ultrapure water is used, and the piping materials include resin-based rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), fluororesins (PVDF, PTFE, PFA), as well as specially surface-treated metal pipes. As manufacturing technologies advance toward greater miniaturization, in order to prevent contamination by impurities, there is a growing market demand for piping materials that can minimize the leaching of inorganic and organic substances to the greatest extent possible.

PFAS, as a general term for organofluorine compounds, are difficult to decompose in nature, and certain types may pose risks to human health and ecosystems. The production and import of PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid) have already been banned. Although, as of 2025, fluororesin materials such as PVDF and PTFE, which are used in ultrapure water pipelines and fittings, have not yet been regulated in Japan, regions such as Europe and the United States are advancing comprehensive PFAS regulations. Globally, the regulation of PFAS is becoming increasingly stringent.