Perfluorononanoic acid

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Perfluorononanoic acid

0Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) is a type of perfluorinated compound (PFC) that is used in a variety of industrial and consumer products. It is a nine-carbon perfluorocarboxylic acid that is part of the larger family of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Chemical Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

Perfluorononanoic acid is a fully fluorinated organic acid. Its chemical formula is C9F19O2. It is a white powder at room temperature and is soluble in water. It has a high thermal stability and is resistant to many types of chemical reactions, which makes it useful in a variety of industrial applications.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Perfluorononanoic acid is used in a variety of industrial and consumer products. It is used in the production of fluoropolymers, which are used in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and fire-fighting foams. It is also used in the production of fluoroelastomers, which are used in seals and gaskets for automotive and industrial applications.

Health Effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to Perfluorononanoic acid can have a variety of health effects. It has been linked to kidney and testicular cancer, as well as endocrine disruption. It can also affect the liver and the immune system. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified it as a likely human carcinogen.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

Perfluorononanoic acid is persistent in the environment and can bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans. It has been detected in a variety of environmental media, including air, water, and soil. It can also be transported long distances in the atmosphere.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a health advisory for Perfluorononanoic acid. The agency has also proposed a significant new use rule (SNUR) that would require manufacturers to notify the EPA before they start or resume the use of this chemical in certain products.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD