What are PFAS: A Closer Look at "Forever Chemicals"

You have undoubtedly heard of or read about so called "forever chemicals" by now. While some of this attention is new, the use of these materials is far from new. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of human-made chemicals known for their exceptional resistance to heat, oil, and water. This unique characteristic, stemming from the strong carbon-fluorine bond within their molecular structure, has made them invaluable in numerous industrial and consumer applications for decades.

This resistance to heat and water has been revolutionary for many industrial processes, but also has created a great many of the everyday items you may take for granted. From non-stick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics to firefighting foams and even something as nondescript as fast food packaging, PFAS plays a role. From day to day conveniences, to important and sometimes even life saving applications, PFAS have become an important part of almost everybody's daily life. Their widespread use, however, has raised significant environmental and health questions. The term "forever chemicals" aptly describes their persistent nature. That means PFAS will resist heat and moisture, but also means they do not naturally break down when it's time to dispose of them. Due to the strength of the carbon-fluorine bond, PFAS degrade extremely slowly in the environment. As a result, they can accumulate in water, soil, and even living organisms, including humans.

The medical science around the long term effects the prevalence of PFAS has on humans leads to a murky and winding road of studies. There are over 4,700 different compounds technically classified as PFAS, and the potential health impacts of exposure to certain PFAS compounds is a subject of many ongoing scientific investigations. There have been some studies linking some specific PFAS materials to a wide range of potential health effects, including:

• Immune system disruptions: Some studies suggest potential links between PFAS exposure and weakened immune responses, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
• Liver and kidney issues: Evidence suggests that certain PFAS may affect liver function and potentially impact kidney health.
• Reproductive and developmental effects: Research has explored potential links between PFAS exposure and adverse reproductive outcomes, as well as potential developmental impacts in children.
• Endocrine disruption: Some PFAS have been shown to interfere with the endocrine system, which regulates hormone production and function.
• Increased cancer risk: While research is ongoing, some studies have indicated potential links between certain PFAS and an increased risk of specific cancers.

It's crucial to emphasize that the extent and severity of these potential health effects can vary depending on the specific type of PFAS, the level of exposure, and individual factors.

Why it's Critical to Treat Waste That May Include PFAS

The persistent nature of PFAS necessitates careful management of any waste that may contain these chemicals. Improper disposal can lead to:

• Environmental Contamination: PFAS can leach from landfills into groundwater, contaminating drinking water sources. They can also enter surface water bodies through runoff, harming aquatic ecosystems.
• Bioaccumulation: PFAS can accumulate in the food chain, posing risks to wildlife and humans who consume contaminated fish or other organisms.
• Long-term Public Health Impacts: Continued environmental release of PFAS can lead to widespread contamination and long-term public health consequences.

Effective waste treatment strategies are crucial to minimize these risks. These may include:

• Source Reduction: Development of alternatives and minimizing the use of PFAS-containing products in the first place is the most effective approach to reducing the amount of PFAS in the environment.
• Waste Minimization: Reducing the amount of waste generated during the production and subsequent destruction of materials classified as PFAS, such as through recycling and reuse programs.
• Advanced Treatment Technologies: Employing specialized technologies to remove or destroy PFAS in wastewater and other waste streams.
• Landfill Management: Implementing new techniques and guidelines for landfill design and operation to prevent PFAS contamination of groundwater and the surrounding environment.

While important and extremely useful, the characteristics of PFAS that make them so great for their intended uses are the same characteristics that tend to create the potential for significant environmental and human health impacts. Understanding their properties, potential risks, and the importance of proper PFAS waste management are crucial steps towards mitigating their impact on the environment and human health.

If your company or facility is generating PFAS waste, contact Valicor today and let's discuss how we can help you meet your environmental and sustainability goals.