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GARDCO Announces Global Transition to PFAS-Free Products

Paul N. Gardner Company raises the bar for safer, more sustainable manufacturing in the testing and inspection industry.

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By: KERRY PIANOFORTE

Editor, Coatings World

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Paul N. Gardner Company USA (GARDCO) – worldwide distributors, producers and designers of physical and inspection instruments for the paint, coatings and related industries announced a major sustainability milestone: its global phase-out of PFAS containing products, effective December 31, 2025. This strategic move aligns GARDCO with emerging international regulations and market expectations, while underscoring its commitment to environment and customer wellbeing.

Why Make the Change:

PFAS known as “forever chemicals” for their persistence in the environment, accumulative nature, and ecological toxicity have become the focus of increasingly strict regulations worldwide. Several individual PFAS compounds, such as PFOA and PFOS, are already restricted, and the European Union has set the first group-wide ban. James Fusco, Product Manager, Paul N. Gardner Company statesd “Due to restrictions under chemical regulations there was an urgent need to phase out the PFAS products in our portfolio.” “Our decision Is driven by an urgent need to protect sustainability, comply with global laws, and meet the needs of our customers.”

Positive Impacts & Benefits:

The transition to PFAS-free products offers numerous advantages:

  • Environmental: Eliminates highly persistent and toxic chemicals in the environment, helping protect ecosystems.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Aligns GARDCO with global standards, anticipating future legal requirements.
  • Business Opportunities: Opens doors for new business from customers seeking PFAS-free solutions.
  • Efficiency: Reduces regulatory workload across departments and improves organizational sustainability.
  • Market Acceptance: Improves market perception by eliminating toxic chemicals.

Timeline: When It Went Into Effect:

GARDCO’s PFAS phase-out began in June 2024 with initial communications and planning. Key milestones included:

  • Initial phase-out (products with no sales/stock): September 1, 2024
  • Completion of final PFAS products production: December 31, 2024
  • Full transition to PFAS-free status: December 31, 2025

What products will this affect? 

All products that contain Teflon (Tefcrom applicators, Teflon coated thermometers, disperser blades, etc.)

PFAS-Free Alternatives:

GARDCO’s technical teams are committed to seamlessly managing the transition and ensuring customers experience no interruption in service or product performance. Effective non-stick alternatives to PFAS such as Cerakote and other substitute materials are already in place for the affected product lines. The process includes close monitoring, regular customer updates, and the introduction of innovative, sustainable formulations that deliver the same trusted results without environmental compromise.

Commitment to its Customers:

Gardo noted it was dedicated to transparent communication with its customers, suppliers and the public throughout this transition. Coordinated global outreach ensure that every customer is informed and supported during this change.

For more information about its large selection of Physical Test Instruments, PFAS-free solutions and the future of sustainable testing and inspection products, visit their website at www.gardco.com.

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