Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a fluoropolymer currently used in Belimo’s ball valve seats, is classified as a per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS). Although valued for its exceptional chemical resistance, low friction coefficient, and thermal stability, PTFE raises significant environmental and human health concerns due to its extreme persistence and potential toxicity. Regulatory restrictions across the United States and European Union are rapidly tightening, placing Belimo at risk of non-compliance and reduced market access if a PFAS-containing component remains integrated into their global product line. This project has identified, evaluated, and validated PFAS-free alternatives capable of achieving equivalent or superior performance relative to PTFE in HVAC ball valve seat applications. Candidate materials, including high-performance polymers, polymer composites, and other engineering materials, were screened through comprehensive literature research and a decision matrix based on tribological performance, thermal stability at –10 to 120 °C, chemical resistance, manufacturability, regulatory compliance, and cost. Top-ranked materials have undergone experimental testing at the University of Connecticut to evaluate wear, sealing capability, deformation behavior, and surface interaction over a simulated lifetime of approximately 100,000 cycles. The final outcome of this project is a rigorously supported material recommendation, enabling Belimo to proactively transition away from PFAS-based designs while safeguarding product reliability, sustainability, and global market competitiveness.

Our team collaborated with Mechanical Engineering 10 on this project.