As regulatory pressure on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) intensifies across Europe, the United States, and Asia, automotive manufacturers are actively seeking non-fluorinated surface coating technologies that do not compromise performance. In response, Henkel has introduced a new portfolio of anti‑fingerprint (AF) coatings – Loctite AF 8810 and Loctite AF 8812 – formulated without PFAS or any fluorine components. Designed specifically for automotive displays and touchscreens, these solutions enable manufacturers to meet growing demands for display performance, durability, cleanability, and sustainability.
Regulatory Landscape Driving Innovation
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are extremely persistent in the environment, prompting global regulators to tighten restrictions. In 2026, the EU has entered a new cycle of stricter chemical and substance-of-concern regulations across the automotive value chain, including revisions to REACH, proposed PFAS restrictions, and the End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV) Directive. France implemented a national PFAS ban effective January 1, 2026; the U.S. EPA extended the submission window for TSCA PFAS reporting; and Canada’s updated Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations will take effect June 30, 2026, further tightening limits on PFAS and other high-risk chemicals. Against this backdrop, automakers are urgently seeking fluorine‑free surface coatings that maintain performance while ensuring compliance.
Two New Products: Tailored for Plastic and Glass Substrates
Henkel’s new AF coatings leverage advanced silicone‑based low‑surface‑energy technology, delivering full performance on various substrates without PFAS or fluorine.
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Loctite AF 8810 – Optimized for plastic display cover lenses, ideal for anti‑fingerprint treatment on interior plastic surfaces.
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Loctite AF 8812 – Designed for glass displays, achieving 9H hardness for excellent scratch resistance.
Meeting the High Demands of Next‑Generation Automotive Displays
In modern vehicles, displays are increasing in number, size, usage frequency, and functional importance – making screen performance a critical factor in user experience. The new coating series not only offers robust regulatory compliance and sustainability but also delivers outstanding long‑term reliability under harsh interior conditions, including UV exposure, temperature cycling, and mechanical wear.
Deckard Sorensen, Vice President of Optics and Conformal Coatings at Henkel, commented: “The global transition away from PFAS is accelerating. Our customers need high‑performance alternatives that meet strict specifications without adding process complexity. With Loctite AF 8810 and AF 8812, we provide exceptional durability, optical performance, and user comfort – all in PFAS‑free formulations. This enables automotive customers to meet both market and regulatory requirements as they evolve.”
Superior Durability and Optical Performance
Loctite AF series coatings have demonstrated excellent durability in testing. After 5,000 abrasion cycles (eraser test), Loctite AF 8812 maintained stable water contact angles and retained hydrophobicity after prolonged UV exposure. The coatings feature a low coefficient of friction for smooth touch interaction, combined with high optical clarity and extremely low haze for crisp image reproduction.
Process‑Friendly and Mass‑Production Ready
For applicators, the Loctite AF series offers high flexibility, supporting mass‑production processes such as spraying and physical vapor deposition (PVD), with curing completed in just 30 minutes at elevated temperature – without adding process complexity.
A Key Step Toward Sustainable Coating Solutions
The launch of Loctite AF 8810 and AF 8812 marks an important milestone in Henkel’s sustainability journey. Henkel’s sustainable anti‑fingerprint technology platform – including Loctite® Anti‑Fingerprint and Loctite® InvisiPrint – is designed to help customers move away from PFAS‑based technologies without compromising reliability, sustainability, or user experience. Notably, Loctite® InvisiPrint is a patented PFAS‑free coating that uses a unique optical mechanism to disperse fingerprint oils into an ultra‑thin uniform layer, delivering over 10 times better fingerprint hiding effect compared to conventional AF coatings, while maintaining excellent cleanability and durability. Compatible with spray and PVD processes, it is an ideal choice for premium automotive and consumer electronics displays.
The global anti‑fingerprint coating market is growing rapidly. In 2025, the market was valued at approximately USD 980 million and is expected to reach USD 1.05 billion in 2026, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9%. Key growth drivers include the proliferation of consumer electronics, widespread use of touch surfaces, and rising demand for electric vehicle interiors. Henkel’s new PFAS‑free anti‑fingerprint coatings not only respond to market demand for high‑performance sustainable materials but also provide automakers with a solution that balances competitiveness and environmental responsibility amid global regulatory changes.
For more information about Loctite AF 8810 and AF 8812, or to request technical data sheets and application support, please contact the ASSEMBTEK technical team.
