Venting membranes are widely used in various applications that require protection from liquids and solids while allowing air to pass through. One can find such membranes in cell phones, headlights, batteries, medical devices, or clothing. Currently performing venting membranes are based on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or other per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). However, the use of these substances has been heavily discussed due to their persistent nature. This is why several EU countries (including Germany, amongst others) have submitted a restriction proposal for PFAS-containing materials in 2023.Therefore, there is a strong need to develop venting membranes that are based on non-PFAS materials, without compromising their performance and functionality.

For the first time, Novamem demonstrates the production and use of a hydrophobic venting membrane based on polyphenylsulfone (PPSU). These proprietary membranes are produced by the patented slash/ process of random hard template removal, allowing the manufacturing of membranes based on a large variety of polymers. Available Novamem PPSU membranes offer comparable air flow rates and liquid entry pressures.