Solvay to stop making TFA

Solvay is to cease production of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)-related organics by early 2026 at its site in Bad Wimpfen, Germany. It will also phase out production of some inorganics, including hydrogen fluoride, there by the end of 2026. 

This is all part of wider measures to position Bad Wimpfen as a global hub for its Nocolok brand of non-corrosive aluminium brazing flux and related products and general portfolio change. About 100 jobs will be lost as a result. Much of this business is being relocated from the Garbsen site, which is to close by 2028 with the loss of some 40 more jobs. Solvay will spend some €25 million, most in 2026, in restructuring expenses and strategic investments.

TFA is a synthetic organofluorine compound that is used in multiple end use markets, including pharmaceuticals. It is as an ultra-short-chain perfluoroalkyl acid (PFAA). It also forms part of the same sub-class of PFAS as PFOA, one of the most toxic PFAS.

In addition, TFA is persistent, bioaccumulative and highly mobile, particularly in the water cycle. As a breakdown product of some 2,000 PFAS, including F-gases, fluroropolymers and pesticides, it is nearly ubiquitous in soil, water and sediment. This is a cause of growing concern with the increased focus on PFAS.