PFAS

[pee-fas]

noun

1. perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances: long-lasting chemicals used in cleaning products, cookware coating, fire-fighting foams, makeup, stain-resistant carpeting, etc., that remain in the environment because they break down very slowly, and subsequently accumulate within animals and people: among the substances known as forever chemicals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of PFAS¹

First recorded in 1990–95; by shortening

Example Sentences

Several states have recently moved toward restricting items with PFAS.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The legislation would have prohibited the selling or distributing of cookware with intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, by 2030.

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Those materials, some derived from petroleum, can contain microplastics and the long-lasting chemicals known as PFAS.

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Biochar, a charcoal-like material that some people mix in their garden soil, has pores that can capture metals, Fang said, adding that there’s also research indicating it can suck up PFAS, or so-called forever chemicals.

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While energy intensive, it doesn't require high temperature or pressure, and is easy to operate and integrate into existing treatment systems for concentrating PFAS, says Mark Ralph, CEO of Canadian-based start-up Axine Water Technologies.

Read more on BBC