perfluoroalkylcontaining

Perfluoroalkyl substances, often abbreviated as PFAS, are a group of man-made chemicals that include PFOA, PFOS, and many others. They have been used since the 1940s in a wide variety of industrial and consumer products due to their unique properties, such as water and stain repellency, and their resistance to heat and chemicals. These properties have made them useful in products like non-stick cookware, food packaging, firefighting foam, waterproof clothing, and even some cosmetics.

The chemical structure of PFAS, characterized by a chain of carbon atoms bonded to fluorine atoms, makes them extremely stable. This stability, while beneficial for their intended uses, also means they do not easily break down in the environment or in the human body. This persistence has led to PFAS being commonly referred to as "forever chemicals."

Over time, concerns have arisen regarding the potential health and environmental impacts of PFAS. Due to their widespread use and persistence, they have been detected in soil, water, air, wildlife, and human blood samples globally. Research has investigated potential links between PFAS exposure and various health effects, including immune system impacts, developmental issues, and certain types of cancer. Regulatory bodies worldwide are increasingly focusing on PFAS, with efforts underway to limit their production, use, and release into the environment, and to develop methods for remediation.