FAQ

About the Binder 

An introduction to what the binder is, how it works, and what makes it unique. 

What is the Westra polymer binder?

The Westra binder is a PFAS-free polymer designed for use in battery electrodes. It provides both adhesion and conductivity, enabling high-performance and sustainable electrode manufacturing. 

What makes the binder PFAS-free?

The binder is developed using a fully fluorine-free chemistry. It contains no PFAS or fluorinated components, helping manufacturers comply with current and upcoming regulations. 

How does it differ from traditional binders like PVDF? 

Unlike PVDF, which is fluorine-based and non-conductive, the Westra binder is PFAS-free and conductive. It can replace both the binder and part of the conductive additive, simplifying formulations and supporting cleaner production. 

Is the binder electrically conductive?

Yes. The binder provides inherent conductivity, reducing the need for additional conductive additives and improving overall electrode performance.

Performance & Manufacturing

Key technical questions about performance, compatibility and how the binder fits into existing production lines. 

Does removing PFAS affect performance?

No. The Westra binder is engineered to match or exceed the performance of fluorinated binders while eliminating PFAS. It offers strong adhesion, stability, and consistent cycling performance.

Is the binder compatible with existing electrode manufacturing processes?

Yes. It is designed to fit seamlessly into standard slurry mixing, coating, drying, and calendaring processes. No major process changes are required. 

Can it be used for both anodes and cathodes?

Yes. The binder is compatible with a wide range of active materials and can be used in both anode and cathode formulations. 

What performance improvements can the binder enable? 

The binder can improve conductivity, simplify formulations, reduce PFAS-related risks, and support more stable long-term cycling, particularly valuable for next-generation battery designs. 

Sustainability & Compliance

How the binder supports sustainability goals and helps manufacturers navigate current and upcoming regulations. 

Why is it important to remove PFAS from batteries and electronics?

PFAS are persistent “forever chemicals” increasingly restricted by global regulations. Removing them reduces environmental impact, improves safety, and future-proofs supply chains.

How does the binder support sustainability and upcoming regulations? 

Being entirely PFAS-free and fluorine-free, the binder aligns with EU and international regulatory trends, helping manufacturers stay compliant while reducing environmental and health risks.

Which industries or applications is the binder suitable for? 

The binder is designed for use across battery and electronics applications, including consumer devices, electric mobility, energy storage systems and capacitors, where high-performance PFAS-free materials are needed.

How does the binder support long-term supply chain reliability? 

By removing PFAS and fluorinated materials, the binder reduces regulatory risk, simplifies compliance, and helps manufacturers build more stable and sustainable supply chains over time.