Magnera Develops PFAS-Free Nonwovens for Healthcare

Solution meets the industry’s stringent standards for protection, comfort, and compliance 

By: Karen McIntyre       Nonvowens Industry

Magnera, a leading supplier of advanced material solutions, has introduced a next-generation solution for nonwoven textiles. Magnera’s proprietary innovation delivers fluid repellency needed by healthcare professionals and other industries without the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

PFAS have been widely used for decades in medical gowns, drapes and other protective textiles due to their durability and resistance to water, oil and stains. However, evidence of PFAS persistence in the environment and possible associated health risks has prompted global regulatory action and growing demand for alternatives.

Paul Harmon, Chief Innovation and Marketing Officer at Magnera, says: “Our new solution meets the industry’s stringent standards for protection, comfort, and compliance in articles such as surgical gowns or drapes, while reducing potential pollutants.”

Regulatory bodies worldwide are moving to restrict or reduce PFAS inclusion in manufacturing. In the European Union, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has published an updated proposal to restrict PFAS under the REACH regulation. The plan proposes phased bans and possible time-limited exemptions for essential uses, with final opinions expected in 2026 before requested implementation by the European Commission.

Meanwhile, in the U.S., several states—including California, Maine, and Minnesota—have enacted laws banning the addition of PFAS in various consumer products, with some compliance deadlines starting in 2025. These bans target categories such as food packaging, textiles, cookware, and juvenile products.

As global manufacturers step away from solutions including PFAS, supply shortages and rising costs are accelerating the need for alternatives. Magnera’s innovation delivers a timely, future-ready solution for healthcare providers and other industries navigating this shift.

The nonwoven fabrics offer high-performance fluid repellency without intentionally added PFAS, comfort and breathability for protective textiles, and lignment with evolving global regulatory trends and increased environmental responsibilty.