Dörken – future-proof without compromise
PFAS-free coating systems are a key challenge for the future of industrial surface technology. With its high-performance zinc flake systems, DÖRKEN demonstrates that reliable corrosion protection, defined coefficients of friction, and a high-quality appearance can be achieved with PFAS-free solutions that are qualified and proven in series production.
PFAS-free coatings – full performance
The requirements for modern coating systems continue to increase: they must deliver outstanding performance while remaining safe and efficient to integrate into existing production processes. At the same time, demand is growing for solutions that do not rely on PFAS.
DÖRKEN recognized this trend early on and developed PFAS-free alternatives for its zinc flake coating systems. A particular focus was placed on finding a reliable replacement for the tribological properties provided by PTFE, without compromising functionality, safety, or service life.
From material scouting to a production-ready solution
The answer does not lie in a single substitute material, but in the interaction of the entire coating system. DÖRKEN therefore adopted a comprehensive development approach, combining material scouting, formulation development, and detailed analytical testing to identify suitable raw materials while also eliminating potentially hidden PFAS-containing additives in upstream products.
The result is a carefully engineered system consisting of binders, functional pigments, and additives, combined with a controlled application process. In this way, the goal of being “PFAS-free” has been transformed into a practical technological solution for industrial applications.
Proven technology – new perspectives
DÖRKEN’s PFAS-free portfolio includes a range of basecoats and topcoats designed to meet diverse application requirements.
This includes:
• DÖRKEN® BASE 105, lubricated, silver zinc flake basecoat with solvent base
• DÖRKEN® BASE 120, solvent-based silver zinc flake basecoat
• DÖRKEN® SEAL 715 BLACK, solvent-based topcoat with a matt black finish
• DÖRKEN® SEAL 715 SILVER, solvent-based topcoat with a shiny silver finish
• DÖRKEN® SEAL 711 BLACK, solvent-based topcoat with a matt black finish
• DÖRKEN® SEAL 711 SILVER, solvent-based topcoat with a shiny silver finish
• DÖRKEN® TOP 500 BLACK, water-based topcoat with a shiny black finish
This practical suitability is demonstrated most clearly by OEM specification approvals. DÖRKEN received its first global approval under the Volkswagen specification VW TL245 Ofl-t647. In addition, several PFAS-free system combinations have been included in Volvo Car Corporation's VCS 5737,41 specification.
Approved systems include combinations of DELTA-PROTEKT® KL 100 or DÖRKEN® BASE 120 with DELTA-PROTEKT® TC 502 GZ, as well as the combination of DÖRKEN® BASE 120 and DÖRKEN® TOP 500 BLACK.
The approval of the black topcoat represents a particularly important milestone. Black coatings present unique challenges due to their demanding requirements in terms of colour consistency, surface quality, and tribological performance. Its inclusion in the specification demonstrates that PFAS-free solutions can also meet these demanding technical and aesthetic requirements.
Further validation comes from Jaguar Land Rover: the combination of DÖRKEN® BASE 100 (DELTA-PROTEKT® KL 100) and DÖRKEN® TOP 502 SILVER (DELTA-PROTEKT® TC 502 GZ) has been approved under specification JLR SJ55.
Future-proof without compromise
These specification approvals clearly demonstrate that DÖRKEN’s PFAS-free zinc flake systems have successfully entered serial production applications. They combine the demands of modern, future-proof coating technology with the practical requirements of industrial manufacturing.
DÖRKEN develops coating technologies that meet the challenges of today while setting the standards of tomorrow.