Spigen · Waterproof Personal Electronics
Spigen Liquid Air Samsung Galaxy S21 Matte Black
Smartphone case with limited PFAS risk, but no material disclosure available.
Spigen's TPU phone cases are standard protective rubber polymers without known PFAS coatings. No brand disclosure on chemical composition or PFAS testing, though TPU itself is not inherently PFAS-dependent.
Shop Spigen on Amazon →Material
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) case, matte finish
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
Why this grade
Safe base material
Made from a material with no inherent PFAS use (ceramic, mineral, or natural fiber).
Category baseline
other is a category where PFAS exposure is more common.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement about PFAS in this product.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This case is TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), a flexible synthetic rubber commonly used in phone protection. TPU is chosen for impact absorption and does not contain ceramic coatings, glazes, or metal hardware that would introduce lead, cadmium, or aluminum leaching. The matte finish is applied to the TPU surface itself rather than as a separate coating, which reduces degradation and flaking risk over typical case lifespans. TPU is stable at normal use temperatures and does not off-gas volatile organics at room temperature, unlike some PVC alternatives.
The brand's record and disclosure
Spigen does not publicly disclose detailed material composition or third-party certifications for polymer content (plasticizers, stabilizers, colorants). The company has no documented safety recalls or regulatory violations specific to this product line. Spigen maintains silent stance on PFAS use in manufacturing, meaning no affirmative commitment to PFAS-free materials but equally no evidence of deliberate PFAS addition to finished TPU cases. Brand transparency is minimal but consistent with typical smartphone accessory manufacturers in this price tier.
How it compares in its category
Smartphone cases are among the lowest-risk consumer plastics because they are not heat-cycled during use, do not contact food or skin extensively, and are replaced frequently (typically 1-3 years). TPU cases like this one are safer than PVC or vinyl alternatives, which can leach phthalates and often contain legacy flame retardants. Compared to silicone cases, TPU offers similar safety with better matte-finish durability. Hard polycarbonate cases introduce marginally different risk profiles but are not inherently superior from a chemical perspective.
If you buy it
Avoid prolonged contact with direct sunlight or high heat (above 60C), as TPU can degrade faster under thermal stress, potentially releasing residual monomers or degradation byproducts. Do not use near open flame or place in hot vehicles for extended periods. Replace the case if visible cracking, discoloration, or odor develops, as these signal polymer breakdown. Wash periodically with mild soap and water to remove dust and oils; do not use harsh solvents or bleach.
Beyond PFAS: other things we checked
Established hazard classes for this product type, assessed from public information. These never change the PFAS grade; a Likely flag caps the Verdict at “Buy with care.”
Phthalates or other plasticizers in TPU formulation
TPU requires plasticizers for flexibility; Spigen does not disclose which type. Legacy plasticizers (e.g., DEHP, DBP) are phased out in many manufacturers but cannot be ruled out without material data sheet. Exposure risk is low because case does not contact food or skin extensively.
Heavy metals (cadmium, lead) in colorants or pigments
Matte black finish is typically carbon-based or organic pigment in TPU cases; cadmium and lead pigments are rare in this application and Spigen has no documented violations. No evidence of deliberate use in this product line.
Formaldehyde releasers in polymer stabilizers
TPU stabilizer packages may contain formaldehyde-releasing resins, particularly in lower-cost formulations. Off-gassing at room temperature is minimal and unlikely to pose inhalation risk during normal use. No public testing of Spigen cases for this hazard exists.
Microplastics or polymer degradation fragments
TPU cases shed microscopic particles over time, especially if creased, dropped, or exposed to UV. Shed fragments are likely ingested via contaminated surfaces or hands rather than inhaled. Replacement every 1-2 years mitigates accumulation.
Volatile organic compound (VOC) off-gassing
TPU does not typically off-gas at room temperature or during normal handling. Any odor from a new case should dissipate within hours to days. Persistent chemical smell warrants replacement.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 72% confidence. It is not a lab result.
No independent PFAS lab test is on record for this exact product. A lab test could move the score in either direction.
The brand has not made a specific, verifiable PFAS-free statement, so part of this score reflects that missing disclosure rather than a confirmed material.
Formulations and coatings change between production runs. Always check the current label before buying.
Safer alternatives in Waterproof Personal Electronics
Pelican
M40 Micro Case
Polypropylene copolymer plastic case with solid construction, no Teflon-family coating
Lower PFAS concern. Rigid PP case with no waterproofing treatment.
✓Naturally PFAS-free material
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How we score: every product runs through the same public 0–100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.