[Perspective] From “forever chemicals” to fluorine-free alternatives
By Mohamed Ateia And Martin Scheringer
Science
July 18, 2024
DOI: 10.1126/science.ado5019
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of more than 10,000 synthetic chemicals widely used for providing heat, water, oil, and stain resistance in applications such as nonstick coatings, firefighting foam, and food packaging. These “forever chemicals” are hazardous for human health and the environment, motivating efforts to find suitable replacements (1). The concerns surrounding PFAS are particularly serious because of their unusual persistence and widespread use, resulting in the contamination of both indoor and outdoor environments. Transitioning to PFAS-free alternatives requires careful evaluation of trade-offs as well as accounting for uncertainties to determine the most effective short- and long-term research and development strategies.
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