Forever chemicals PFAS: risks, bans, and eco-friendly alternative
PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, are found in a wide range of products, from rain jackets to specialized research instruments. Due to their accumulation in the environment, they are slated for prohibition. In this article, we explore the potential risks of these substances, the upcoming bans, and possible alternatives.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a frequently discussed topic in health and environmental protection. Once released, they remain in the environment for a long time, accumulate in the food chain, and can harm both humans and the environment. These substances, known as “forever chemicals,” are detectable worldwide in water, soil, plants, animals, and humans.
PFAS are used due to their thermal and chemical stability, as well as their water- and grease-repellent properties. They are found in items such as mobile phones, wind turbines, cosmetics, solar panels, medical devices, and rain jackets, and are difficult to replace in many of these products. Despite their widespread use, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed a ban on the production, use, and marketing of PFAS. Companies must now review their supply chains and find alternatives.
Event Tip: EC conference Understanding PFAS and reformulating PFAS-free coatings
In our EC conference “Understanding PFAS and reformulating PFAS-free coatings” from 18. – 19. Nov 2024 in Cologne, we will address the question of how the industry can adapt to this challenge. Learn the full story behind PFAS. Which substances are of concern, but which are useful and less critical? What alternatives already exist? Find out which areas have the most potential and where the current limits lie. In addition, international experts will report on the latest developments and innovations on PFAS and alternatives.
Applications of PFAS
PFAS have been synthetically produced since around 1950 as they do not occur naturally. They are widely used because they are water-, grease-, and dirt-repellent, as well as temperature-resistant and durable.
Typical applications include surface treatment of metals and plastics, semiconductor manufacturing, photographic processes, and use in the automotive and construction industries. PFAS are also found in cables, seals, coolants, cleaning agents, pesticides, paints, and firefighting foams.
Furthermore, PFAS can be found, either intentionally or as contaminants, in cosmetic and personal care products, fast-food packaging, baking paper, microwave popcorn bags, muffin tins, water-repellent outdoor clothing, carpets, tablecloths, non-stick pans, baking molds, foils, cups, plates, storage boxes, impregnating agents, floor and car care products, ski waxes, and electronic devices.
Reading Tip about PFAS
To delve deeper into the multifaceted realm of PFAS, explore the three-part article series about PFAS:
- The PFAS Controversy (1): Navigating a Global Call for Ban Amidst Complex Challenges
- The PFAS Controversy (2): Global Perspectives and Regulatory Variations
- The PFAS Controversy (3): Challenges, Innovations, and Collaborative Solutions
Risks of PFAS
PFAS can enter the environment during their production, processing, use, and disposal. Humans primarily absorb these chemicals through the food chain and drinking water. They can also enter the human body through air, household dust, and PFAS-containing products, where they accumulate mainly in organs and blood. Studies show that PFAS are either excreted unchanged and slowly or metabolized into other PFAS. Short-chain PFAS are excreted more quickly than long-chain ones. The accumulation in the body can lead to reduced vaccine effectiveness, decreased fertility, increased cholesterol levels, higher diabetes risk, liver damage, hormonal disruptions, impaired fat metabolism, and increased cancer risk.
Source: QUMsult 2024
