PFAS

American  

[pee-fas] / ˈpiˌfæs /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of PFAS

First recorded in 1990–95; by shortening

Example Sentences

It will also make French authorities regularly test drinking water for all kinds of PFAS.

From Barron's

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals that date back to the 1940s.

From Science Daily

I ask whether the oil-based fluids in the firm's cooling system are derived from fossil fuel products and he says some of them are, though he stresses that none contain PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, which are harmful to human health.

From BBC

Some liquid-based data centre cooling technologies use refrigerants that do contain PFAS.

From BBC

Every set of turnout gear tested also contained brominated flame retardants, with extractable levels generally higher than those measured for PFAS.

From Science Daily