PFAS - What are they? and How are they being regulated?

What are PFAS?

PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a group of over 10,000 synthetic fluorinated compounds that contain extremely strong carbon-fluorine bonds. Due to these properties, PFAS are resistant to thermal and chemical degradation, making them useful in various industrial applications and consumer products.

Properties and Uses

PFAS are used in products such as:

  • Non-stick and stain-resistant coatings (pans, clothing, furniture)
  • Firefighting foams
  • Lipophobic packaging (fast food containers, pizza boxes)
  • Cleaning and personal care products

Their unique properties include:

  • Resistance to oils and greases
  • Thermal and chemical stability
  • Anti-stick properties

Challenges in Replacing Them



Due to their unique properties, replacing PFAS in some applications is a significant challenge. Research and development of safe and effective alternatives is a current area of focus.

Regulations

  • EPA - National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS: focuses on protecting human health, especially exposure to PFOA, PFOS, GenX, and PFBS during pregnancy, lactation, and in general.
  • REACH Regulation: limits the use of PFAS in industrial products in Europe.
  • EPA - Drinking Water and Hazardous Waste Directives: establish maximum permitted levels of PFAS in water sources and industrial discharges² ³.
  • Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) section 8(a)(7): requires manufacturers and processors of PFAS to report on production and use.
  • State and Federal Regulations: some jurisdictions have implemented exposure limits and specific regulations for PFAS.

Exceptions and Areas of Focus

  • Use in Firefighting Foams: recent research has documented contamination of water and soil in areas where these foams have been used.
  • Ongoing Research: studies are being conducted to determine safe exposure levels and impact on human health ⁴.

Global Monitoring and Regulation

Several agencies and organizations are monitoring and regulating PFAS, including:

  • United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • World Health Organization (WHO)
  • European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Impact on Human Health

Check out our interview with a Substance of Concern engineer to learn more about their daily work.


PFAS have been associated with several health problems, including:

  • Cancer (e.g., testicular and kidney cancer)
  • Reproductive and developmental problems
  • Thyroid function alterations
  • Immunological problems

Challenges and Future Directions

  • Monitoring and Detection: developing more effective methods to detect PFAS in the environment and products.
  • Safe Alternatives: researching alternatives to PFAS in products and industrial processes.

References

  • European Union's REACH Regulation
  • National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
  • United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2022). PFAS Strategic Roadmap.
  • World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). Keeping our water clean: the case for PFAS regulation.
  • European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). (2020). PFAS restriction proposal.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Factsheet.

Additional Sources

  1. AIMPLAS. (December 19, 2024). PFAS: What are they, legislation, and possible prohibition.
  2. Lagupres. (March 2025). PFAS Elimination | Comply with regulations.
  3. United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (April 2024). Questions and Answers: National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS.
  4. Fychtech. (n.d.). PFAS: Impact and Regulations of "Forever Chemicals".
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