Detection of fluorinated wax on the ski surface

In this study, the distribution and the quantification of ski wax were investigated, with a focus on fluorinated wax. Since the ban of fluorinated wax by the International Ski Federation, the amount of fluorine on skis is measured for each competition. This quantification is made possible thanks to the development of an infrared spectrometer (Alpha II) by Bruker. Coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), the accuracy of the Alpha II is highly sensitive, detecting very low fluorine concentrations. This high-resolution analytical technique (EDX) enables not only cross-validation but also spatial characterization, thanks to fluorine which acts as a chemical tracer. The results, confirmed also by Raman spectroscopy, revealed that waxes tend to lodge within the micro-roughness of ski bases. This work lays the groundwork for developing the next generation of waxes, ones that match the performance of their fluorinated predecessors without compromising environmental integrity.