Pfas-free aromatic thermosetting copolyester (ATSP) coatings for bakeware
ATSP Innovations is developing non-stick bakeware coatings using aromatic thermosetting copolyester (ATSP) resin as a sustainable alternative to PFAS-based formulations. ATSP offers exceptional thermal stability up to 510°C, excellent scratch resistance, intrinsic recyclability as a vitrimer, and low surface energy for non-stick performance. The technology targets affordable, environmentally friendly bakeware solutions.
Overview
ATSP Innovations is developing aromatic thermosetting copolyester (ATSP) coatings as a high-performance, PFAS-free alternative for bakeware applications. Current non-stick bakeware coatings rely on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which face increasing regulatory and consumer scrutiny due to environmental and health concerns. ATSP resin offers a compelling replacement by combining thermal stability, scratch resistance, low surface energy, and intrinsic recyclability in a single material platform. The company is seeking to formulate ATSP into powder-coatable coatings that deliver comparable or superior non-stick performance while remaining cost-competitive with conventional solutions.
Technical specifications
Key material properties of ATSP resin:
- Thermal stability: Short-term thermal stability up to 510°C (5 wt% mass loss point); long-term thermal stability above 300°C, well exceeding conventional baking temperatures
- Scratch and wear resistance: Demonstrated excellent scratch resistance and strong adhesion to metallic substrates including aluminum and steel
- Non-stick character: Low surface energy with a contact angle of approximately 90° without fillers; previously used to impart low coefficients of friction in tribological applications
- Flame resistance: Naturally flame resistant and ablative, with very high char yields and endothermic char formation
- Recyclability: Intrinsically recyclable as a vitrimer, enabling both physical and chemical recycling at end of life
- Processing: Currently powder-coatable and commercially sold for powder coating applications
Proposed development approach:
- Formulation and optimization of ATSP-based powder coatings for bakeware substrates
- Material characterization including heat resistance, scratch resistance, adhesion, thickness, and uniformity
- Performance testing through baking trials at varying temperatures and durations to evaluate non-stick properties, durability, and cleanability
- Cost analysis to confirm economic viability for affordable consumer products
Technology readiness level
ATSP resin is commercially available and currently sold for powder coating and tribological applications such as valve sealing components. The technology has established performance credentials in thermal stability, wear resistance, and recyclability. The current project focuses on adapting and validating ATSP formulations specifically for bakeware non-stick applications, including coating optimization, substrate adhesion testing, real-condition baking performance evaluation, and cost analysis. This represents a targeted application development effort building on a proven material platform.
About ATSP Innovations, Inc.
ATSP Innovations, Inc. develops and commercializes a novel family of high-performance resins known as Aromatic Thermosetting coPolyesters (ATSP). Founded in 2010, the company leverages its proprietary polymer chemistry to create materials that combine the structural benefits of high-temperature thermosets with the processing flexibility of thermoplastics. Their technology portfolio includes specialized product lines such as Estherm advanced polyesters, Self-Bond structural adhesives, and NOWE wear solutions. These innovations are engineered to provide ultra-high thermal stability, superior wear resistance, and unique solid-state bonding capabilities, offering solutions for industries with demanding mechanical and thermal requirements.
The company serves diverse sectors including aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, and general industrial manufacturing. By providing high-performance composites, coatings, bearings, and seals, ATSP enables customers to address complex challenges such as lightweighting, metal replacement, and extreme condition lubrication. With a leadership team possessing extensive expertise in polymer synthesis and tribology, the company collaborates on next-generation applications ranging from launch vehicles to microelectronics. Originally established at the University of Illinois Research Park, ATSP has since transitioned its operations to Houston, Texas, where it continues to advance its polymer research and commercialization efforts.
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