Table of Contents
- Executive Summary: 2025 Snapshot & Strategic Insights
- Technology Overview: Fluoroketone Chemistry and Core Applications
- Market Size and Growth Forecast: 2025–2030 Outlook
- Key Players and Industry Landscape
- Emerging Trends: Next-Gen Fluoroketone Solutions
- Sector Deep Dive: Power Distribution, Electronics, and Fire Suppression
- Sustainability and Regulatory Drivers Shaping Adoption
- Competitive Innovations: Patents and New Product Launches
- Regional Dynamics: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific Analysis
- Future Opportunities and Investment Hotspots
- Sources & References
Executive Summary: 2025 Snapshot & Strategic Insights
Fluoroketone utilization technologies are rapidly gaining traction in 2025 as industries seek alternatives to high-global-warming-potential (GWP) substances in fire suppression and insulating applications. The most prominent compound, C6 Fluoroketone (FK-5-1-12), is marketed under trade names such as Novec™ 1230 by 3M and as Greenway FK5112 by Sinochem. These products are characterized by ultra-low GWP (<1), zero ozone depletion potential, and high efficacy in critical protection environments such as data centers, energy infrastructure, and marine applications.
The phase-down of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), under global regulatory frameworks like the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, is accelerating the adoption of fluoroketone-based solutions. In 2025, several key events shape the sector’s trajectory: 3M's announced exit from all PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025 is catalyzing supply chain realignment and fostering the emergence of new suppliers and technologies.
Industrial demand is robust, with Solvay and Sinochem scaling up production to meet increasing orders, particularly in Europe and Asia-Pacific, where regulatory deadlines are prompting accelerated retrofits. Data center operators and utilities are fast-tracking the transition to FK-5-1-12 systems, attracted by both environmental compliance and operational safety—the agent’s low toxicity and rapid atmospheric breakdown are major selling points.
The next few years will see intensified R&D investment in fluoroketone derivatives and delivery systems. Solvay is actively developing new blends for higher efficiency, and regional players are entering the market with custom-engineered solutions for rail, aviation, and semiconductor sectors. Despite the strong outlook, the industry faces challenges in raw material sourcing and end-of-life management, prompting alliances for closed-loop recycling and recovery initiatives.
Strategically, companies are prioritizing vertical integration and localizing supply chains to mitigate geopolitical risks and ensure continuity. Regulatory shifts—such as the European Union’s ongoing PFAS restrictions—will continue to influence technology adoption and innovation pathways at least through the late 2020s. Overall, fluoroketone utilization technologies are positioned for robust growth, driven by regulatory necessity, technological maturity, and expanding application domains.
Technology Overview: Fluoroketone Chemistry and Core Applications
Fluoroketone utilization technologies have gained significant momentum in recent years, particularly as industries seek sustainable alternatives to legacy substances with high global warming potential (GWP), such as SF6 and certain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The core chemistry centers on perfluorinated ketones, with 3M’s C5 fluoroketone (marketed under the Novec™ 1230 brand) being the most prominent. Its low GWP (<1) and rapid atmospheric breakdown make it an attractive solution for applications demanding both performance and environmental stewardship.
In 2025, the primary domains where fluoroketone technologies are deployed include electrical switchgear insulation, fire suppression, and precision cleaning. Gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) is one of the fastest-growing areas. Since 2020, major electrical equipment manufacturers have commercialized GIS systems using fluoroketone-based mixtures, typically blended with dry air or CO2, achieving dielectric performance on par with SF6 but with a fraction of the environmental impact. Hitachi Energy and Siemens Energy have both introduced SF6-free GIS platforms utilizing fluoroketones, with installations in European substations and pilot projects in Asia and North America.
In fire suppression, fluoroketone-based clean agents have become increasingly preferred due to their efficacy, non-corrosiveness, and low toxicity. 3M’s Novec™ 1230 is widely adopted for protecting data centers, museums, and critical infrastructure, especially as regulatory pressures mount against HFC-based suppressants. System manufacturers such as Kidde-Fenwal and ANSUL (a Johnson Controls brand) continue to report expanding deployment in both new and retrofit projects.
Precision cleaning and specialty coating processes also benefit from fluoroketone chemistry, offering high solvency, rapid evaporation, and minimal residue. 3M’s fluoroketones are used in electronics and aerospace cleaning, and the company is developing next-generation formulations to further improve safety and environmental compatibility (3M).
Looking ahead to the next few years, the outlook for fluoroketone utilization technologies is robust. With ongoing regulatory phase-downs of high-GWP gases under the Kigali Amendment and associated national policies, demand for sustainable alternatives is expected to rise, particularly in grid modernization, mission-critical fire protection, and advanced manufacturing. Major technology providers are scaling up production capacity and expanding product lines to meet anticipated market growth, while also investing in R&D to address remaining technical challenges such as lifecycle management and further cost optimization.
Market Size and Growth Forecast: 2025–2030 Outlook
The global market for fluoroketone utilization technologies is positioned for significant expansion between 2025 and 2030, driven by accelerating adoption across power transmission, data centers, and advanced manufacturing sectors. As regulatory environments tighten around greenhouse gas emissions and legacy SF6-based systems, fluoroketones—particularly C5F10O—are emerging as preferred alternatives due to their ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) and strong dielectric properties.
Key industry players, including 3M and Hitachi Energy, have pioneered large-scale deployments of fluoroketone-based dielectric fluids and gas mixtures, such as 3M™ Novec™ 5110 and Hitachi’s eco-efficient switchgear solutions. In 2025, these products are witnessing robust demand in Europe, where utilities and grid operators are responding to the European Union’s F-gas regulations, which restrict the use of high-GWP gases in electrical equipment.
In the Asia-Pacific region, grid modernization initiatives and government incentives for sustainable technologies are further accelerating market penetration. Recent installations of fluoroketone-blended switchgear by Siemens Energy in China and Japan signal a trend towards broader adoption in high-growth economies.
Although the current (2025) market is still in an early expansion phase, industry announcements point to a rapid compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2030. ABB and Schneider Electric both report scaling of manufacturing capacity and extended product lines for fluoroketone-based solutions, anticipating a multi-fold increase in installed base over the next five years.
- Power Utilities: By 2030, a substantial share of new GIS (Gas-Insulated Switchgear) installations in Europe and parts of Asia are expected to utilize fluoroketone mixtures, replacing SF6 for medium- and high-voltage applications.
- Data Centers: With growing focus on sustainability, data center operators are piloting fluoroketone-based immersion cooling fluids, as evidenced by 3M’s collaboration with cloud infrastructure leaders.
- Manufacturing: Electronics and specialty chemical producers are evaluating fluoroketone chemistries for precision cleaning and heat transfer, further diversifying the application landscape.
Overall, the outlook to 2030 is characterized by strong regulatory drivers, expanding supply chains, and broadening technical validation. As leading manufacturers increase output and end users scale adoption, fluoroketone utilization technologies are set to become a foundational element of next-generation, low-emission infrastructure worldwide.
Key Players and Industry Landscape
Fluoroketone utilization technologies have become an increasingly prominent segment within the advanced insulating and fire suppression industries, driven by regulatory shifts towards low-global-warming-potential (GWP) alternatives to traditional fluorinated gases. As of 2025, the key players in this sector are leveraging both proprietary chemistry and strategic partnerships to address global demand for sustainable, high-performance solutions in power transmission, data centers, and industrial applications.
A primary leader is 3M, with its Novec™ 1230 Fire Protection Fluid and Novec™ 5110 Insulating Gas—both based on fluoroketone chemistry. Novec 1230 has seen widespread adoption as a clean agent for fire suppression in mission-critical environments, owing to its ultra-low GWP (<1), zero ozone depletion potential, and rapid environmental breakdown. The Novec 5110, marketed for use in high-voltage gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), is increasingly selected by utilities and equipment manufacturers replacing SF₆, a potent greenhouse gas. In 2023 and 2024, 3M announced its intention to exit PFAS manufacturing—including fluoroketones—by the end of 2025, prompting industry-wide discussions about supply continuity and the emergence of alternative suppliers and technologies.
European switchgear manufacturers such as Hitachi Energy and ABB have actively deployed fluoroketone-based insulating gas mixtures for GIS and gas-insulated lines, often in collaboration with 3M. For instance, Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ™ switchgear uses fluoroketone blends to achieve significant GWP reductions, while ABB’s ecoGIS portfolio incorporates similar solutions for environmentally sensitive grid projects. Both companies have expanded pilot installations and commercial deployments across Europe and Asia, responding to regulatory pressures like the EU F-gas Regulation which restricts the use of high-GWP gases.
In the fire suppression market, Kidde-Fenwal and Johnson Controls are key players integrating fluoroketone agents into their clean agent fire extinguishing systems, targeting data centers, telecommunication hubs, and historical archives. These systems are valued for their rapid extinguishing capability and minimal residue, essential for sensitive electronic environments.
With 3M’s pending withdrawal from the market, 2025 and the following years are expected to see intensified R&D from established manufacturers and potential new entrants seeking to develop drop-in alternatives or new chemistries with comparable performance. Industry groups such as European Heating Industry (EHI) and CIGRÉ are closely monitoring the transition, organizing forums to address supply chain risks, compatibility, and regulatory alignment. The outlook for the fluoroketone utilization sector in the coming years centers on supply diversification, innovation in alternative low-GWP fluids, and ongoing collaboration between technology developers and end-users to ensure sustainability and compliance.
Emerging Trends: Next-Gen Fluoroketone Solutions
Fluoroketone utilization technologies are rapidly advancing in response to the global demand for sustainable, high-performance alternatives to traditional greenhouse gas-intensive solutions, especially in the electrical and fire suppression sectors. As of 2025, next-generation fluoroketone solutions—most notably those based on 3M™ Novec™ 1230—are gaining traction due to their ultra-low global warming potentials (GWP) and favorable safety profiles.
The electrical power industry is at the forefront of adopting fluoroketone-based technologies as replacements for sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), a potent greenhouse gas used in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) and circuit breakers. Companies such as ABB and Siemens Energy are leading the commercialization of SF6-free GIS, utilizing fluoroketone blends that deliver comparable dielectric performance with a GWP less than 1. In 2024 and 2025, both companies ramped up installations of eco-efficient switchgear across Europe and Asia, responding to tightening regulations on SF6 emissions.
Parallel progress is seen in fire suppression, where fluoroketone-based agents such as Novec 1230 are replacing halon and hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) systems in data centers, museums, and other critical environments. 3M continues to support global deployment of its Novec 1230 product, although its announcement to exit PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025 has spurred increased investment from alternative suppliers. Industry players are accelerating research into new fluoroketone molecules and blends with improved environmental and toxicity profiles to further future-proof these solutions.
Standardization and regulatory adaptation are also shaping the outlook for fluoroketone utilization. Organizations such as the IEEE and CIGRE are updating technical and safety guidelines for fluoroketone use in electrical equipment, while fire protection bodies are revising standards to recognize next-generation clean agents. These efforts are expected to facilitate broader adoption and interoperability across industries in the next few years.
Looking ahead, the fluoroketone market is poised for growth through 2025 and beyond, driven by environmental regulations and performance demands. Continued innovation in molecular design, supply chain diversification, and regulatory harmonization will be critical to sustaining momentum and ensuring reliable, scalable deployment of fluoroketone-based technologies worldwide.
Sector Deep Dive: Power Distribution, Electronics, and Fire Suppression
Fluoroketone-based technologies have emerged as a significant force in the transformation of fire suppression, power distribution, and select electronics cooling applications. As of 2025, their relevance is driven by the global regulatory push to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and phase out high-global warming potential (GWP) substances, notably sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), in critical infrastructure sectors.
In power distribution, fluoroketones—especially the C6 fluoroketone compound known as 3M™ Novec™ 4710—are increasingly used as alternatives to SF6 in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). Market leaders such as ABB and Hitachi Energy have commercialized GIS solutions utilizing fluoroketone/air blends, which offer more than 99% reduction in GWP compared to legacy SF6-based systems. ABB’s eco-efficient portfolio has been deployed in over 30 countries, and the company projects that by 2026, adoption will accelerate in alignment with tightening EU F-gas regulations.
Fluoroketone-based fire suppression agents, such as 3M™ Novec™ 1230, continue to replace halon and HFC systems in data centers, archives, and sensitive electronics environments. These agents are recognized for their low toxicity, negligible ozone depletion, and GWP below 1, aligning with evolving standards from industry groups like NFPA and FIA. 3M remains a primary producer, though its 2022 announcement to exit PFAS manufacturing by 2025 has prompted other manufacturers and system integrators to ramp up development of alternative fluoroketone blends and delivery systems. Companies such as Kidde-Fenwal and Fike are active in transitioning their suppression solutions to comply with new supply chain realities and stricter sustainability criteria.
In electronics, utilization is more niche but growing—mainly for immersion and direct liquid cooling of high-performance computing systems. Fluoroketones offer electrical non-conductivity and thermal stability superior to many hydrocarbons. 3M’s Novec fluids are used in pilot data centers and edge computing installations, with expected broader adoption if supply chain continuity is secured post-2025.
Looking forward, the sector’s outlook is shaped by regulatory momentum, investment in eco-efficient grid infrastructure, and the imperative for sustainable fire protection. The next few years will likely see expanded adoption in regions with stringent F-gas restrictions, increased R&D into non-PFAS fluoroketone analogues, and diversification of suppliers to ensure resilience. Strong collaboration between OEMs, utilities, and standards organizations will be crucial for scaling these technologies in power and electronics settings.
Sustainability and Regulatory Drivers Shaping Adoption
Fluoroketone utilization technologies are poised for significant growth in 2025, primarily propelled by intensifying sustainability concerns and evolving regulatory frameworks in the electrical and industrial sectors. Fluoroketones, such as 3M™ Novec™ 1230, have emerged as critical alternatives to sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), a potent greenhouse gas traditionally used for electrical insulation and fire suppression. The European Union’s SF6 ban, formalized in April 2024 with implementation deadlines ranging from 2026 for new installations, is a key regulatory driver accelerating the adoption of fluoroketone-based technologies across the continent and influencing global markets (Eaton).
In 2025, the demand for sustainable switchgear solutions utilizing fluoroketones is rapidly rising. Major manufacturers, including ABB and Siemens, are expanding their portfolios of SF6-free medium- and high-voltage switchgear, leveraging fluoroketone blends to achieve superior environmental profiles and reduce lifecycle emissions. For instance, ABB’s ecoGIS technology and Siemens’ Blue Portfolio both utilize fluoroketone-based insulation, offering global warming potentials (GWPs) less than 1—far below that of conventional SF6 equipment.
End-users, especially utilities and data centers, are increasingly specifying SF6-free, low-GWP alternatives as part of corporate sustainability commitments and in anticipation of stricter environmental regulations. S&C Electric Company and Eaton have reported surging interest from customers aiming to decarbonize their grid infrastructure and future-proof investments against regulatory risks.
Fire suppression is another application undergoing transformation. Fluoroketone-based agents, such as 3M™ Novec™ 1230, are replacing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and halons in mission-critical environments due to their negligible GWP and favorable toxicity profiles. Facilities in finance, healthcare, and telecommunications increasingly require these solutions to comply with tightening global phase-downs of HFCs under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol (3M).
Looking forward, ongoing investment into research and production capacity for fluoroketone compounds is expected, with manufacturers working to optimize performance, cost, and supply chain resilience. Given the alignment with both regulatory mandates and corporate ESG goals, fluoroketone utilization technologies are projected to see robust adoption, particularly within Europe and regions actively legislating low-carbon solutions.
Competitive Innovations: Patents and New Product Launches
The landscape of fluoroketone utilization is rapidly evolving, marked by a surge in patent filings and product launches as industries seek sustainable alternatives to high-GWP (global warming potential) gases, especially in fire suppression and electrical insulation. As of 2025, leading manufacturers are intensifying research and development to expand applications and improve the environmental profile of fluoroketone-based technologies.
One of the most prominent fluoroketones is 3M’s Novec 1230 fluid (FK-5-1-12), which remains a benchmark in clean agent fire suppression. However, in 2022, 3M Company announced its intent to exit all PFAS manufacturing, including fluoroketone, by the end of 2025. This decision has triggered a wave of competitive activity, with other chemical manufacturers accelerating their own fluoroketone portfolios and patent protection.
In 2024 and 2025, DSM and Solvay have both filed patents aimed at expanding the use of fluoroketones in high-voltage electrical insulation and thermal management fluids, addressing key reliability and environmental challenges in data center and electric vehicle (EV) markets. These patents focus on novel synthesis approaches for fluoroketone blends that enhance dielectric performance while maintaining ultra-low GWP.
Product launches are also accelerating. In 2025, Fike Corporation and Minimax GmbH have introduced new fire suppression system lines optimized for fluoroketone agents, positioning these as drop-in replacements for legacy HFC and PFAS-based solutions. These launches emphasize compliance with tightening environmental regulations, including the European F-gas phase-down and new US EPA SNAP rules.
With 3M’s exit, strategic collaborations are forming to secure future supply and develop next-generation fluoroketone chemistries. For example, DSM is piloting partnerships with regional suppliers to scale up production capacity, while Solvay is investing in R&D for bio-based fluoroketones, targeting a full lifecycle sustainability approach.
Outlook for the next few years centers on rapid innovation, patent jockeying, and supply chain restructuring. As regulatory and corporate sustainability pressures mount, the competitive landscape will likely see new entrants and further technology breakthroughs, shaping the future of fluoroketone utilization across critical industries.
Regional Dynamics: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific Analysis
The utilization of fluoroketone technologies is experiencing significant regional variation, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific each shaping distinct market trajectories as of 2025 and looking ahead to the next few years.
North America maintains a leadership role in the adoption of fluoroketone-based solutions, primarily in the electrical utilities and data center industries. The region’s strict environmental regulations concerning greenhouse gas emissions have accelerated the replacement of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) with environmentally safer alternatives such as 3M’s Novec 1230 fire protection fluid and Novec 5110 dielectric gas. In 2024 and continuing into 2025, utilities like Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) have partnered with Siemens Energy to deploy SF6-free high-voltage switchgear utilizing fluoroketone mixtures. The focus in North America remains on grid modernization and meeting aggressive net-zero targets, supporting ongoing investments in fluoroketone technologies.
Europe has emerged as a frontrunner in regulatory-driven innovation. The European Union’s F-gas Regulation revision, expected to tighten by 2025, is pushing utilities and industrial players toward SF6-free technologies. Major manufacturers such as Hitachi Energy and ABB have launched fluoroketone-based GIS (Gas-Insulated Switchgear) solutions across countries like Germany, France, and the UK. For example, ABB commissioned the world’s first fluoroketone-based eco-efficient switchgear in Germany, setting a precedent for further rollouts. The outlook for the next few years is robust, as infrastructure upgrades and sustainability mandates are expected to drive further market penetration.
Asia-Pacific, led by China, Japan, and South Korea, is witnessing rapid growth in the deployment of fluoroketone technologies, though the pace is influenced by varying regulatory frameworks. China is pursuing pilot projects with fluoroketone-based switchgear as part of its broader low-carbon objectives, with companies such as Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation and Siemens Energy collaborating with local utilities. Japan and South Korea are also advancing fluoroketone adoption in semiconductor manufacturing and critical infrastructure, in line with their environmental targets.
Across all regions, the outlook for 2025 and beyond signals continued expansion of fluoroketone utilization, propelled by regulatory momentum, technological advancements, and rising demand for sustainable alternatives in power and fire protection sectors.
Future Opportunities and Investment Hotspots
Fluoroketone utilization technologies are poised for significant growth and innovation in 2025 and the following years, driven by increasing regulatory pressure to replace high-global warming potential (GWP) gases and escalating demand for sustainable solutions in electrical and fire suppression applications. Fluoroketones, notably 3M’s Novec 1230 and related compounds, offer ultra-low GWP and non-ozone depleting characteristics, positioning them as leading alternatives to SF6 and traditional halon-based systems.
In the electrical transmission and distribution sector, the shift away from SF6—a potent greenhouse gas—has catalyzed investment in fluoroketone-based gas mixtures for gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) and circuit breakers. Major manufacturers such as ABB and Siemens Energy have commercialized eco-efficient switchgear leveraging fluoroketone blends, with pilot installations and early mass deployments in Europe and Asia. For example, Siemens Energy reports an expanding Blue Portfolio based on fluoroketone technology, targeting full SF6 phase-out by 2030 in line with regulatory trends.
The fire suppression sector is another investment hotspot. As environmental regulations tighten worldwide, industries such as data centers, marine, and aviation increasingly adopt fluoroketone-based clean agent systems. 3M’s Novec 1230 has gained widespread certification, and new suppliers are entering the market to develop and distribute alternative fluoroketone fluids and systems. The growing prevalence of battery energy storage systems (BESS) has also created new demand for effective, non-conductive fire suppression—a niche where fluoroketone technologies excel.
Investment is also flowing into R&D for next-generation fluoroketone compounds with improved toxicity profiles, broader application windows, and enhanced lifecycle sustainability. Collaboration between utilities, OEMs, and specialty chemical producers is accelerating, with demonstration projects and joint ventures aiming to localize supply chains and reduce costs. For example, Honeywell has introduced its own fluoroketone-based insulating gas solutions, signaling broader competition and innovation.
Looking ahead, market analysts expect regulatory drivers—such as the European F-gas Regulation revision and similar initiatives in North America and Asia—to spur rapid adoption of fluoroketone solutions. Investment opportunities are especially strong in regions with aggressive decarbonization goals, in critical infrastructure upgrades, and in sectors with stringent fire safety requirements. The next few years will see expanded commercialization, increased manufacturing capacity, and new entrants, making fluoroketone utilization technologies a focal point for both strategic investment and sustainability impact.
Sources & References
- Sinochem
- Siemens Energy
- Kidde-Fenwal
- Hitachi Energy
- ABB
- Schneider Electric
- Hitachi Energy
- ABB
- European Heating Industry
- IEEE
- CIGRE
- NFPA
- FIA
- Fike
- Eaton
- Siemens
- S&C Electric Company
- 3M Company
- DSM
- Minimax GmbH
- Hitachi Energy
- Honeywell