Alternative Fluoropolymers to Avoid Challenges Associated with PFOA

摘要

The widespread occurrence, biopersistance and unexpected toxicity of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) have raised world wide environmental concerned. PFOA is used primary as a surfactant in the manufacture of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). However, most of PFOA found in the environment is believed to be from the degradation of products derived from fluorinated telomers; short-chain fluorinated alcohols used as stain- and grease-resistant coatings on carpets, textiles, and paper. The manufacture of PFOA as well as perfluorooctanessulfonate and its derivatives used as stain-resist coatings has been phased out by the 3M Company. It is envisioned that long chain perfluorocarboxylic acids such as PFOA and materials that may degrade to them will be severely restricted by the US Environmental Protective Agency EPA and comparable agencies world wide in the near future.