Water Lecture 7

PFAS

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, harmful chemicals.

Forever Chemicals

Stable compounds that persist in the environment.

Teflon

Introduced in 1938, used for non-stick coatings.

Bioaccumulation

Accumulation of substances in living organisms.

Public Water Supplies

Water sources tested for PFAS contamination.

AFFFs

Aqueous Film-Forming Foams used in firefighting.

NPDWR

National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS.

Parts Per Trillion

Measurement unit for PFAS concentration in water.

Health Risks

Potential negative effects of PFAS exposure.

Reproductive Issues

Concerns about fertility and pregnancy complications.

Developmental Effects

Impact of PFAS on children's growth and behavior.

Cancer Risks

Association between PFAS and certain cancers.

Immune System Suppression

Reduced ability to fight infections due to PFAS.

Hormonal Disruption

Interference with natural hormone functions by PFAS.

Cholesterol Risks

PFAS linked to increased cholesterol levels.

Consumer Products

Everyday items containing PFAS, like cosmetics.

Industrial Pollution

PFAS contamination from manufacturing and waste sites.

Water-Resistant Textiles

Fabrics treated with PFAS for waterproofing.

Food Packaging

Materials containing PFAS to prevent grease leakage.

Soil Contamination

PFAS spread from waste sites into soil.

Exposure Pathways

Ways individuals come into contact with PFAS.

Regulatory Gaps

Inconsistent regulations leading to varied exposure limits.

Long-Term Exposure

Prolonged contact with low levels of PFAS.

Analytical Sensitivity

Improved detection methods for PFAS in water.

Environmental Impact

Consequences of PFAS on ecosystems and wildlife.

Vulnerable Populations

Groups at higher risk from PFAS exposure.