Perfluorooctanesulfonamide

Perfluorooctanesulfonamide (PFOSA) is a fluorocarbon derivative that is a synthetic chemical compound used in a variety of industrial and consumer product applications. It is a member of the class of compounds known as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), which are characterized by their resistance to heat, water, and oil.

History

PFOSA was first synthesized in the mid-20th century. Its unique properties, including its resistance to heat and chemical reactions, made it a valuable ingredient in a variety of products, including firefighting foam, carpet stain repellents, and non-stick cookware.

Chemical Structure

Chemical structure of perfluorooctanesulfonamide

PFOSA is a complex molecule with the chemical formula C8F17SO2NH2. It consists of a chain of eight carbon atoms, fully substituted with fluorine atoms, with a sulfonamide group at one end.

Uses

PFOSA has been used in a variety of industrial and consumer applications due to its unique properties. It has been used in firefighting foam due to its ability to lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread more easily and cover a larger area. It has also been used in carpet stain repellents and non-stick cookware due to its resistance to heat and chemical reactions.

Health Effects

Exposure to PFOSA has been linked to a variety of adverse health effects in humans and wildlife. These include endocrine disruption, developmental toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity. Due to its persistence in the environment and its bioaccumulative nature, PFOSA is considered a global pollutant.

Regulation

Due to the potential health risks associated with PFOSA, several countries and international organizations have implemented regulations to limit its use and release into the environment. In 2009, PFOSA was added to the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, which aims to eliminate or restrict the production and use of persistent organic pollutants.

See Also

• Perfluorooctanoic acid
• Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid
• Perfluoroalkyl substances