PFAS in textiles: New testing methods, new opportunities
PFAS – often referred to as “forever chemicals” – are a group of synthetic compounds characterized by their exceptional chemical stability. This stability makes them ideal for textiles that need to repel water, oil, dirt, or even aggressive liquids. Especially in areas such as medical protective clothing, firefighting clothing, military textiles, or outdoor equipment, PFAS-based finishes are often technically unavoidable.
RUDOLF & BIONIC-FINISH® ECO: Prepared for the future
With growing regulatory attention and the desire for greater transparency in the supply chain, the issue of PFAS is increasingly coming into focus. The new European standard EN 17681-1:2025, published on April 30, 2025, brings a paradigm shift in PFAS analysis: It replaces the previous version from 2022 and, for the first time, enables the detection of PFAS that were deeply hidden in polymer structures through alkaline hydrolysis. The new method replaces the previous pure methanol extraction with a combination of methanol and sodium hydroxide. This also reveals hidden PFAS from side-chain fluoropolymers – even those that were previously considered “PFAS-free.” In addition, cross-contamination during production can now also be detected. It is important to note that the standard does not constitute a ban, but serves as an objective test procedure that increases transparency and creates a basis for regulatory decisions.
How RUDOLF supports the market
RUDOLF responded to these challenges early on and developed BIONIC-FINISH® ECO, a fluorine-free technology. This nature-inspired solution offers high universal water repellency without the use of fluorochemicals.
All products using BIONIC-FINISH® ECO technology have already been tested in external laboratories in accordance with EN 17681-1:2025 – with consistently positive results. This means that RUDOLF is not only compliant, but also future-proof. The new standard gives RUDOLF and its partners a clear advantage in terms of trust: it shows that the products are PFAS-free even under more stringent conditions. Brands and retailers benefit from increased trust.
Responsibility meets performance
EN 17681-1:2025 is more than a technical update – it is a symbol of the shift towards sustainable chemistry and responsible production. With BIONIC-FINISH® ECO, RUDOLF shows that performance and environmental awareness are not a contradiction.
Ready to future-proof your textile production?
Let our experts guide you through the transition to PFAS-free performance. Contact us today to learn how BIONIC-FINISH® ECO can be tailored to your materials and processes. We’re here to support you—on site, in the lab, and every step of the way.