Perpetuus Advanced Materials has announced the development of a graphene-based masterbatch designed to replace 6PPD in tire and rubber formulations. According to the company, the new material eliminates the formation of 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-Q), a toxic by-product linked to ecological impacts, particularly in salmon-bearing waterways in the Pacific Northwest.

The solution is based on Perpetuus’ plasma-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). The company reports that the amine-functionalized GNPs provide anti-degradant performance comparable to 6PPD but without generating 6PPD-Q. The masterbatches are supplied in industrial quantities and are intended for direct integration into manufacturing processes without requiring changes to existing equipment.

Scientific findings published in 2020 identified 6PPD-Q as a leading cause of acute mortality in coho salmon, prompting increased regulatory attention worldwide. Perpetuus states that its approach offers a drop-in alternative consistent with policy initiatives such as Washington State’s 6PPD Action Plan. The new stabilization mechanism relies on radical scavenging by amine groups on the GNPs, enabling rubber protection without the use of 6PPD.

The masterbatch is designed for use not only in tires but also in a range of synthetic rubber products, including hoses, belts, seals, and vibration-control components used across automotive, industrial, and construction sectors. In parallel, Perpetuus reports developing GNP-based filtration systems for stormwater and runoff applications as a near-term mitigation option while longer-term material transitions progress.

Production is supported by the company’s continuous plasma processing platform, designed to deliver consistent surface chemistry and batch repeatability. Perpetuus is currently seeking regulatory alignment, pilot deployment sites, and OEM partnerships to advance broader adoption of the technology.

More information is available in the original announcement from Perpetuus Advanced Materials.