Researchers at Norwegian University of Science and Technology develop world’s fastest fluorine-free cross-country skis

Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) aim to develop the world’s fastest fluorine-free cross-country skis. Led by Audun Formo Buene, an assistant professor of chemistry, the project called FramSki has secured funding of 30 million Norwegian kroner, with half coming from the Research Council of Norway. Over the next three years, three full-time researchers will focus on creating new, superior skis without using fluor.

Fluor has recently been banned in skiing due to its harmful environmental and health effects. According to the Norwegian Climate and Pollution Agency, fluor compounds break down extremely slowly, posing risks to drinking water and agriculture. These substances can lead to liver and developmental damage, impact the immune system and cholesterol levels, and may be cancer-causing.

As part of their efforts, the researchers will analyze the entire ski, including its construction, surface structure, and chemistry, rather than just the wax typically used. Formo Buene noted that current fluor-free waxes merely eliminate fluor without improving performance, effectively reversing decades of advancements.

Stein Olav Snesrud, fluor-free coordinator at the Norwegian Ski Federation, highlighted the significance of this research, stating that the ban on fluor removed crucial tools for maintaining performance across diverse snow conditions. He expressed hope that this new technology would first benefit Norwegian athletes, emphasizing that finding an effective alternative could eliminate incentives for cheating.

Although the researchers do not expect to have a viable product ready for the upcoming 2025 World Ski Championships, there remains optimism for future competitions as they strive for groundbreaking improvements in ski technology.