PFA

PFA is an acronym that can refer to several different organizations and scientific terms. This article summarizes the most widely used meanings in sports, biology, and materials science.

Professional Footballers' Association (PFA): The trade union representing professional football players in the United Kingdom and, historically, Ireland. Founded in 1907, it provides contractual and welfare support, negotiates terms with leagues, and runs education programs. It also presents annual awards such as the PFA Players' Player of the Year and the PFA Team of the Year. The association maintains professional standards and conducts research on players’ welfare and health.

Paraformaldehyde (PFA): A solid polymer of formaldehyde used as a tissue fixative in biology and medicine. When dissolved and heated, it releases formaldehyde, creating cross-links that preserve cellular structure. It is commonly prepared as 4% paraformaldehyde in phosphate-buffered saline for tissue fixation, with handling precautions due to toxicity and irritant properties.

Perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA): A high-performance fluoropolymer related to PTFE. It offers high chemical resistance, high temperature tolerance, and is melt-processable, enabling easy fabrication. PFA resins and tubes are used in chemical processing equipment, laboratory apparatus, and industrial piping where purity and inertness are essential.

Other uses and meanings exist, depending on context, but the above are among the most common. When encountering PFA, determine the field to select the appropriate interpretation.