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

Wastewater treatment plants are designed to take in thousands of gallons of wastewater from sanitary and storm sewer systems, and that water also carries a significant load of microplastics and PFAS.

From Science Daily

Scientists analyzed the liquid waste, or leachate, released by four Illinois landfills and the inflows and outflows of associated wastewater treatment plants to determine the fate of two contaminants: microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.

From Science Daily

The analysis revealed that while landfills do a good job of retaining microplastics, their leachate contains high levels of PFAS.

From Science Daily

For example, in April, the EPA passed the nation’s first-ever national drinking water standard to protect an estimated 100 million people from a category of synthetic chemicals known as PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to cancer, high blood pressure, and immune system deficiencies.

From Salon

Thanks to their stain-, water-, and grease-resistant properties, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, have been a mainstay of commercial and consumer products for decades.

From Salon