The European Regulation 2033/2023 has significantly reduced the use of so-called “microplastics.” One of the sectors affected by the new rules is that of lubricants, which is why the Italian brand Pakelo presented a new collection of “PTFE-Free” products at Bauma 2025
In September 2023, the European Union enacted Regulation 2033 aimed at minimizing the release of so-called “microplastics” into the environment. The term refers to any synthetic, solid, and organic polymer smaller than five millimeters, which is also insoluble in water and resistant to degradation. Among the substances affected by the regulation is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a polymer known by various trade names once it has been reduced to micro-particles and modified for different applications. “Teflon,” “Fluon,” “Algoflon,” “Hostaflon,” “Inoflon,” and “Guaflon” are some of the most common names, with “Teflon” being the most recognized, particularly in reference to the solid additive previously used in the production of both solid (grease) and liquid (oil) lubricants.
The EU restricts the use of Teflon
European regulations have now significantly limited the use of “Teflon,” prompting all lubricant manufacturers to initiate research to find alternatives capable of maintaining—or even improving—the performance of their products. Among the first companies to act is the Italian brand Pakelo, long committed to the environmental sustainability of its lubricants. It was no surprise, then, to see Pakelo at Bauma showcasing a collection of new greases entirely free from microplastics and PTFE-based compounds. The first products launched under this new development direction are the “Bearing EP LP23 Ker NLGI 2/3” and the “Whiker EP Grease NLGI 2.” The former is a grease thickened with complex lithium soaps and enriched with a high percentage of ceramic additives, based on an advanced solid additive technology using a special crystalline ceramic structure.
Pakelo for the environment
This results in significant benefits in terms of reduced friction and wear, making the product particularly suitable for applications requiring high resistance to elevated temperatures. “Whiker EP Grease NLGI 2,” on the other hand, is a synthetic ivory-white grease thickened with lithium soaps and solid additives made of titanium dioxide and ceramic.
Characterized by exceptional adhesion and water repellency, it is the ideal solid lubricant for heavy-duty machinery used in earthmoving, agriculture, industry, and transport. These new products confirm Pakelo’s strong commitment to environmental and health protection and represent the first steps in a production strategy aimed at completely eliminating PTFE-Teflon from all its products—while also offering users technical and economic advantages, such as longer maintenance intervals.
Title: Pakelo Ptfe Free: bye bye Teflon
Translation with ChatGPT
