AF(Anti Fingerprint) Coatings: The Shift To PFAS-free Technology

Principle

AF coatings make a nanoscale low surface energy film on glass, which provides hydrophobic and oleophobic properties.The higher water contact angle tells better anti fingerprint performance.

Industry shift: Beyond Fluorine
Traditional AF coatings rely on fluorinated compounds (e.g., PFPE). However, growing global concerns over PFAS environmental risks are accelerating a "de-fluorination" revolution.

Henkel's Breakthrough (April 2026)
Germany's Henkel launched two pioneering PFAS-free anti-fingerprint coatings: Loctite AF 8810 and Loctite AF 8812. Based on advanced silicon-based low-surface-energy technology, they contain zero PFAS or fluorine, matching traditional fluorinated coatings in performance while meeting strict environmental regulations.

Key Performance (Loctite AF 8812 for Glass)

Hardness: 9H

Abrasion resistance: >5,000 rub cycles with stable contact angle

UV stability: no performance loss

Process compatibility: spray, PVD, etc.

Curing: 30 minutes under heat

Executive Statement
Deckard Sorensen, VP of Henkel's Optical & Conformal Coatings: "The global push to phase out PFAS is accelerating. Customers urgently need high-performance alternatives. We deliver durability, optical quality, and user comfort-without PFAS."

Chinese Players
Domestic manufacturers are expanding from niche to mainstream markets with self-developed fluorinated material synthesis technologies. A patent disclosed in January 2026 (China) features a multilayer glass structure (silicon oxynitride reinforcement + anti-reflective stack + silica + AF layer), achieving high hardness, excellent optics, and superior anti-fouling/wear resistance.