Tech21 · Waterproof Phone Cases
Tech21 FlexQuartz MagSafe Case for iPhone 17 Pro
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) blend, with no water-repellent coating named. Water resistance on products like this usually comes from the material and its seals rather than a surface treatment. The brand has published no PFAS statement for it.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) blend
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Tech21 FlexQuartz MagSafe Case Pro is made of, ingredients and materials
This case is TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), a flexible synthetic rubber polymer commonly used in phone cases because it absorbs impact and resists tearing. TPU does not off-gas formaldehyde or volatile organic compounds in normal use, and does not leach BPA or phthalates into skin contact. The MagSafe integration is mechanical (embedded magnets), not a coating, so there is no additional surface treatment chemistry to consider.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Phthalates
Some TPU formulations use phthalate plasticizers to enhance flexibility. Tech21 does not publicly disclose plasticizer chemistry for this case. Skin contact risk is low because phthalates migrate poorly through intact TPU, but ingestion (e.g., chewing) poses theoretical exposure.
Source, ATSDR ↗Allergen sensitivity to TPU or additives
Individuals with latex allergy may have cross-reactivity to TPU because both contain similar polymer backbones, though clinical data is sparse. Fragrance or antimicrobial additives, if present in the formulation, are not listed in product documentation.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Microplastic shedding
TPU cases are durable and do not shed microparticles in normal use or when washed. Degradation requires years of UV exposure or extreme mechanical wear, which is not typical for phone cases replaced every 2-3 years.
Heavy metals
The FlexQuartz colorway uses mineral-filled TPU (quartz particles) for grip and durability. No cadmium, lead, or antimony contamination has been reported. Printed logos or graphics, if present, are not disclosed in product specs and would require brand confirmation.
Source, FDA ↗Thermal degradation and fume release
TPU does not release toxic fumes at typical use temperatures (0-50°C ambient). Only if the case is stored in a car at extreme heat (>70°C) over weeks could degradation begin, which is unlikely to pose inhalation risk at consumer exposure levels.
How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Tech21 is owned by Otter Products (also maker of OtterBox) and has a documented history of environmental and material transparency, including third-party testing partnerships. The brand does not publicly claim PFAS-free status, but has no known recalls or litigation tied to hazardous leachates. Tech21 products carry CE and FCC compliance marks, indicating basic safety vetting, though independent PFAS testing of this specific case has not been published.
How it compares in its category
Waterproof phone cases are typically made of TPU, silicone, or rubber blends. TPU is less prone to permanent degradation than lower-grade plastics and does not require coating with water-repellent coating (water-repellent coating) chemicals to achieve waterproofing because the material itself is inherently hydrophobic. This case avoids the PFAS risk present in cases marketed with fluorinated water-repellent coating coatings, making it a lower-chemical alternative than some competitors.
If you buy it
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat above 60°C (140°F), as TPU can soften and lose shape. Wipe the case with a soft, damp cloth; harsh solvents or bleach can degrade the material. Replace the case if seals show visible cracks, creasing, or white stress marks, as waterproofing may be compromised. The MagSafe magnets present lower concern for cardiac pacemakers at normal distances, but do not store near sensitive electronics.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 35% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Tech21 has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to Tech21 FlexQuartz MagSafe Case for iPhone 17 Pro?
- Flax fiber and plant-based resin blend, compostable
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Coating degradation and durability over time
2 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- plant-based bioplastic (flax and other plant fibers)
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Thermal degradation and warping
3 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- Plant-based bioplastic (compostable blend)
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Bioplastic degradation and microparticle shedding
More waterproof phone cases grades
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.