PFBS

PFBS stands for perfluorobutanesulfonate, a member of the perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFAS). It is the sulfonate form of perfluorobutane and commonly occurs as sodium PFBS or ammonium PFBS salts. PFBS is a highly fluorinated, persistent compound with a sulfonate group, giving it strong stability and resistance to environmental degradation.

Uses and occurrence: PFBS has been used as a surfactant and processing aid in the manufacture of fluoropolymers and fluorinated coatings. It has been adopted as a partial replacement for PFOS in some consumer products, including stain- and oil-repellent finishes, textiles, paper products, and firefighting foams. The shift away from PFOS has increased PFBS presence in various goods and environmental matrices.

Environmental fate and exposure: PFBS is detected worldwide in air, water, sediments, and wildlife. It tends to be mobile in water and can adsorb to solids depending on conditions. Human exposure arises mainly from diet and consumer products, with PFBS measured in some blood and urine samples.

Toxicity and regulation: Animal studies show potential adverse effects at high doses; human relevance at typical environmental exposures is still being studied. Regulatory actions vary by country, with PFBS included in PFAS monitoring programs and drinking water guidelines in some regions.

Analytical methods: Detection commonly uses LC-MS/MS for targeted PFBS analysis in water, soil, sediment, biota, and products.