FOREVER CHEMICALS
"Forever chemicals" is a nickname used to refer to a class of synthetic compounds called PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been widely used in a variety of industrial and consumer products, such as nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant textiles and carpets, food packaging, and firefighting foam, due to their unique properties, such as oil and water resistance, heat stability, and chemical stability.
The unique properties of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also known as "forever chemicals," are what made them so widely used in a variety of industrial and consumer products. Some of the key properties of PFAS include:
Oil and water resistance: PFAS have a unique molecular structure that makes them highly resistant to oil and water, which makes them ideal for use in products such as nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, and food packaging.
Heat stability: PFAS have high heat resistance and do not break down at high temperatures, which makes them useful in high-heat applications such as in the manufacturing of heat-resistant wiring.
Chemical stability: PFAS are extremely stable and do not break down easily, which is why they are referred to as "forever chemicals." This stability also makes them resistant to degradation in the environment, which is a major concern.
Low surface tension: PFAS have low surface tension, which makes them ideal for use in products that require low friction and easy release, such as nonstick cookware.
These unique properties have made PFAS widely used in many products, but they are also what make them problematic. The persistence and accumulation of PFAS in the environment and in the bodies of animals and humans has raised concerns about their potential health effects, leading to increased regulations and phasing out of their use.
However, PFAS are also known for their persistence in the environment and their ability to accumulate in the bodies of animals and humans. This has led to concerns about their potential health effects, including links to cancer, liver damage, immune system disruption, and developmental problems, among others. As a result, many countries have taken steps to regulate or phase out the use of PFAS.
