PFAS and laboratories; when will lab managers sit up and realise what’s on the horizon?

Last month, GAMBICA – the UK’s leading trade association for industrial automation, test and measurement, laboratory technology, and process instrumentation – submitted the laboratory sector’s views to the Government’s consultation on Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). These substances are vital to laboratory work but are now under scrutiny. There is concern that the UK may follow the EU’s lead by introducing a blanket ban on all PFAS, which could bring laboratory operations – including PFAS detection – to a standstill.

There are real concerns about PFAS disposal and their long-term impact on the environment and human health. PFAS are now found across the globe and in the blood of most people – yet we still don’t fully understand the implications. Ironically, the very properties that make PFAS so valuable – their durability and chemical stability – also make them persistent environmental pollutants. Major contamination has resulted from firefighting foams and industrial discharges, particularly in the US.
While addressing pollution is essential, the EU’s approach of banning the entire class of PFAS – not just those with proven risks – could have severe unintended consequences. This broad approach, while understandable (as seen with designer drugs circumventing legislation), risks undermining critical scientific work.

The crucial role of PFAS

PFAS, including familiar materials like PTFE and PFA, offer unmatched chemical, thermal, and mechanical resistance. They are integral to safety, performance, and innovation across many industries:
• Filtration systems: PTFE is essential for sterile air and liquid filtration in pharmaceutical production. HEPA filters with PFAS maintain clean environments with reduced energy use and emissions.
• Chemical tubing: Laboratory instruments require tubing that withstands aggressive chemicals and high temperatures. Only PTFE and PFA reliably meet these needs.
• Chemical bottle vents: PFAS ensure safe venting of gases from chemical containers, preventing dangerous pressurisation.
• Electronics manufacturing: PTFE is crucial in semiconductor and wafer processing, thanks to its stability in corrosive settings.
• Analytical instruments: Systems such as HPLC and UHPLC rely on PFAS components for consistent and safe operation – alternatives currently compromise performance.
• Vacuum and microscopy tech: Equipment like scanning electron microscopes and turbo molecular pumps use PFAS for their chemical inertness and stability under extreme conditions.
• Lubricants: PFAS-based lubricants perform reliably in high-vacuum environments, with low outgassing and high durability.
• Nanoscience tools: PTFE coatings are used in atomic force microscopes and high-voltage components, such as insulation for wires up to 10,000 volts.
• Longevity and maintenance: Many systems are built to last decades. Continued access to PFAS-based spare parts is essential to avoid unnecessary equipment disposal and environmental waste.
GAMBICA advocates for a risk-based regulatory framework under UK REACH – one that evaluates individual applications instead of enforcing sweeping bans. This approach can safeguard essential uses while addressing environmental concerns with proper containment and disposal practices.
However, even if the UK takes a balanced approach, an EU-wide ban would still significantly affect UK laboratories. Any equipment sourced from the EU would need to be PFAS-free – which may mean higher servicing needs and reduced durability. Even UK-made equipment could be impacted, as many manufacturers export to Europe and may be forced to standardise designs.
Beyond lab instruments, PFAS are found in plumbing, wiring, and electronics. A broad ban on these would affect laboratories too. GAMBICA continues to work with policymakers to ensure technical realities inform regulations, protecting both the environment and scientific progress.
The consultation has now closed, but once the Government publishes its conclusions, it may be the right time for broader engagement. The scientific community must consider how best to address the challenges and find practical solutions. Your thoughts are welcome – please contact Jacqueline Balian at: Jacqueline.balian@gambica.org.uk

Rare earths: Another chemical challenge

On the subject of crucial materials – have you heard about the situation with rare earths?
China has imposed new export controls on rare earth elements and magnets, which are essential to a wide range of modern technologies. These controls, introduced in response to US tariffs, require exporters to obtain official licences. However, approvals have been slow, causing significant delays in shipments – including permanent batteries – to global markets. In the last few weeks, none of these exports at all has reached the UK.
The restrictions apply to seven key rare earth elements and the magnets made from them. These are used in products such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, robotics, and military aircraft.
Germany has already raised alarms over potential production disruptions, and major US companies like Tesla and Lockheed Martin have voiced concerns. It is likely that similar issues will soon affect UK industries.
The Chinese controls aim to prevent military applications, but so far, there has been little public discussion in the UK about the potential consequences. Have you noticed any impacts yet?