PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid)

Definition

PFOA is a synthetic chemical compound belonging to the group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). It has been widely used in industries for its water-repellent properties, such as manufacturing non-stick cookware and waterproof fabrics.

Related terms

PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid):

Similar to PFOA, PFOS is another type of PFAS commonly used in industrial applications.

Biomagnification:

Biomagnification is the process by which concentrations of a substance, like PFOA, increase at higher levels of the food chain as organisms consume contaminated prey.

Water-repellent coatings: These are materials treated with substances like PFOA to make them resistant to water absorption or wetting.