LaserPEEK – PFAS-Free Surface Solutions for Medical Technology
07.10.2026
Project Partners:
ELB – Eloxalwerk Ludwigsburg Helmut Zerrer GmbH
University of Rostock – Chair of Microfluidics
Project Start: September 2026
Motivation and Objective:
PTFE-based coatings are well established in numerous technical applications due to their low friction, high chemical resistance, and excellent wear and temperature resistance. At the same time, PFAS, which include PTFE, are increasingly becoming the focus of regulatory and public attention.
The LaserPEEK research project addresses this challenge by pursuing the development of a high-performance, PFAS-free surface solution based on PEEK (polyetheretherketone) for selected applications in medical technology.
The project focuses on components made from aluminium alloys, which offer interesting opportunities for reusable medical devices due to their low weight and good machinability.
The aim is to develop a surface that reproduces the key functional properties of established PTFE coatings as closely as possible – without the use of PFAS.
Collaborating Partners and Their Roles in the Project:
The project is supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) as part of the ZIM research funding programme.
By supporting application-oriented research, the programme contributes to the development of innovative technologies in Germany, the strengthening of industrial expertise, and the long-term competitiveness of Germany as a technology hub. LaserPEEK brings together surface engineering, polymer development, and laser technology to develop a new generation of PFAS-free functional surfaces.
ELB – Eloxalwerk Ludwigsburg Helmut Zerrer GmbH
Project coordination as well as the development, formulation, application, and characterization of PEEK-based coating systems. T
he main focus is on the functional and tribological optimization of the surfaces.
University of Rostock – Chair of Microfluidics
Development and investigation of ultrashort-pulse laser technology for micro- and nanostructuring, as well as surface analysis and tribological testing. By combining industrial surface engineering, polymer development, laser technology, and tribology, the project establishes a joint foundation for the development of innovative PFAS-free functional surfaces.
LaserPEEK – Rethinking surfaces. Rethinking materials. Shaping the future.
