PFAS – Keeping up with the chemicals

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of at least 4700 substances used in the manufacture of many consumer products. In addition to food packaging, paints and fire-fighting foams, PFAS are often added to textiles (such as outdoor jackets, work or protective clothing) for water and oil repellent finishing.

These substances can enter the environment during production, use, care and disposal of the products. Due to their high stability, these “forever chemicals” do not degrade and are detectable in groundwater and soils. From there, PFAS can accumulate in living organisms and be ingested by humans through the food chain.

Studies have shown widespread contamination of the blood and breast milk of the global population. PFAS have been linked to effects on the thyroid, hormonal system, liver damage and cancer, among others.

Because of this worrisome combination of properties, the PFAS substance group has become the focus of NGOs and legislators. In Europe, the first compounds of this group, PFOS and PFOA, were restricted several years ago. In the meantime, further individual compounds have been included, and more will soon follow. In the U.S., many bills for state regulations on consumer products have been recently introduced and some have been passed. On Jan. 1, 2023, the first laws will go into effect.

Both regulatory and analytical changes are still expected in the future. Meanwhile, knowledge within supply chains is not yet sharpened. Therefore, it is important to gain certainty and minimize risks through proactive measures.

In contrast to the targeted restriction of individual substances as defined in the EU, the entire group of organically bound fluorine (total organic fluorine (TOF)) has been regulated in the U.S. This also leads to different approaches to testing, and frankly, confusion.

With no standardized set of analytics, different testing approaches are required depending on the market (e.g., target analysis vs. total organic fluorine). Choosing the right testing approach and performance analysis must always be in line with the latest scientific knowledge.

Smart testing plans ask the right questions. They assess risks specific to the supply chain and product type. They also consider functionality and back performance claims. ?The wrong approach could cause damage to people, planet, reputations and budgets.

Systems and experts are already dedicated to this issue. In the face of growing regulations and complex analysis, it is vital to have a partner with technical expertise and analytical know-how.

Article prepared by AAFA Product Safety and Compliance Seminar Sponsor, Hohenstein Group Authored by Dr. Alpmann, Principal Chemist, Hohenstein Group(January 18, 2023). Learn more at?aafaglobal.org/psafety23?#AAFASafe