PFAS

definition

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a large group of chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer applications since the 1950s, most usually where extremely low surface energy or surface tension and/or durable water- and oil-repellency is needed. PFASs consist of a fully (per) or partly (poly) fluorinated carbon chain connected to different functional groups. Based on the length of the fluorinated carbon chain, short and long-chain PFASs can be distinguished. The length of the fluorinated carbon chain can result in different physicochemical properties that influence the substance behavior in the environment and in organisms, and its bioaccumulation and (eco) toxicity.

In the perfluoroalkyl substances sub-group, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) are the most thoroughly studied substances.

Food and water PFASs contamination mostly comes from the environment, but also from some food contact materials treated with PFASs.

The diet intake is now a major source of PFAS exposure for most of the population.