Quick answer
3M said in December 2022 it would stop manufacturing PFAS, including Novec fluids, by the end of 2025. For two-phase immersion, alternatives include Chemours Opteon 2P50, a hydrofluoroolefin fluid. For many sites, single-phase immersion with hydrocarbon or ester fluids is the other route. No fluid is a guaranteed drop-in: requalify with your hardware and tank makers.
Key takeaways
- 3M’s Novec fluids were widely used in two-phase immersion.
- Alternatives must be qualified for your tank, hardware and operating temperature.
- Plan supply, top-up stock and end-of-life handling before switching.
General information. Confirm the exact fluid, equipment and qualification with your hardware or CDU supplier before specifying.
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What changed
In December 2022, 3M announced it would exit PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025. Industry press noted that this would affect two-phase immersion cooling, where Novec products had been widely specified, alongside tightening US EPA rules on PFAS.
Your options
| Option | What it means | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Alternative two-phase fluid | Qualify a replacement such as Chemours Opteon 2P50 | Hardware and tank qualification; fluid is still fluorinated chemistry |
| Move to single-phase immersion | Hydrocarbon or ester fluids, pumped heat exchange | Different tanks; heat density limits |
| Move to direct-to-chip | Cold plates with PG25 or treated water loops | Rack and CDU changes; residual air cooling |
| Secure remaining stock | Buy top-up volume for the existing fleet | Availability, storage, and future disposal rules |
Transition checklist
- Inventory installed fluid volume and annual top-up loss.
- Ask hardware and tank makers which alternatives they have qualified.
- Run a pilot and compare thermal performance and losses.
- Plan fluid recovery, recycling or disposal for the old fluid.
- Update safety data and staff procedures.
Related: single- vs two-phase immersion · dielectric fluids · Chemours profile.
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Get the checklist →Frequently asked questions
Is 3M Novec still available?
3M said it would stop PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025. Check remaining distributor stock and plan alternatives.
Is there a drop-in replacement for Novec?
Treat no fluid as a drop-in. Qualify any alternative with your tank and hardware makers.
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