Syensqo ends C6O4 production at its Italian site

Syensqo has announced the end of C6O4 production at its Spinetta Marengo site in Italy. C6O4 was the last fluorosurfactant used by the company to manufacture certain fluoropolymers at the facility. The step fulfils the innovation commitment announced in 2022 to phase out fluorosurfactants by 2026, while maintaining production of high-performance materials used in semiconductors, batteries, hydrogen technologies and other specialised industrial applications.

Fluorosurfactants are processing aids used in the manufacture of certain fluoropolymers. They have received particular regulatory and public attention as part of the broader discussion concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS. According to Syensqo, investment in research and innovation since 2019 has enabled it to develop a polymerisation process that does not require fluorosurfactants, while retaining the performance and reliability expected from fluoropolymers. The company has introduced these polymerisation technologies across its product lines, enabling it to cease C6O4 production in Italy.

Transition to a new polymerisation process

"This milestone reflects years of investment in innovation. We have developed manufacturing technologies that eliminate the need for fluorosurfactants while continuing to provide the high-performance fluoropolymers our customers rely on for critical applications including semiconductors, clean energy and healthcare," said Mike Radossich, CEO of Syensqo.

"Fluoropolymers remain essential materials for technologies that support the energy transition, medical innovation, clean water and digital infrastructure."

The production stop is part of Syensqo's strategy to reduce emissions from manufacturing processes and continue innovation in high-performance polymers. The company also states that it intends to support evolving regulatory expectations through science-based solutions.

Limited use of existing C6O4 inventories

Nearly 100% of Syensqo's fluoropolymers are now manufactured without these PFAS processing aids. However, a small number of highly specialised fluoropolymers still require further research and qualification before they can be transferred to the new manufacturing technology. These products account for approximately 1% of the site's production volume and are used mainly in hydrogen and semiconductor applications.

Existing C6O4 inventories will be used to manufacture these specialised fluoropolymers with the best available technology for reducing emissions. Syensqo states that its portfolio of specialty polymers and its materials science expertise support the development of solutions for demanding applications. The transition to production without fluorosurfactants is intended to reduce the manufacturing footprint of its high-performance materials.