Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Definition
PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals used in a wide range of products due to their resistance to heat, water, and oil. They have been widely used in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging materials, and firefighting foams.
Non-Stick Coating: A type of coating applied on surfaces that prevents food from sticking during cooking.
Water Repellent: A substance or treatment that makes a material resistant to the penetration of water.
Bioaccumulative Potential: The ability of a substance to accumulate in living organisms over time, potentially leading to adverse effects on their health.
"Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)" also found in: