PFAS tagged posts

These 11 Genes may help us Better Understand Forever Chemicals’ Effects on the Brain

A blue gloved hand places a small bottle of liquid into a laboratory machine.
A study led by the labs of University at Buffalo chemistry professors G. Ekin Atilla-Gokcumen and Diana Aga has uncovered some molecular clues about the neurotoxic effects of  per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, better known as forever chemicals. Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki/University at Buffalo

Molecular clues about the neurotoxic effects of PFAS. A new study has identified 11 genes that may hold the key to understanding the brain’s response to these pervasive chemicals commonly found in everyday items.

Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) earn their “forever chemical” moniker by persisting in water, soil and even the human brain.

This unique ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in brain tissue makes PFAS particularly concerning, but t...

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New Study confirms Forever Chemicals are Absorbed through Human Skin

A study of 17 commonly used synthetic ‘forever chemicals’ has shown that these toxic substances can readily be absorbed through human skin.

New research, published today in Environment International proves for the first time that a wide range of PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances) — chemicals which do not break down in nature – can permeate the skin barrier and reach the body’s bloodstream.

PFAS are used widely in industries and consumer products from school uniforms to personal care products because of their water and stain repellent properties. While some substances have been banned by government regulation, others are still widely used and their toxic effects have not yet been fully investigated.

PFAS are already known to enter the body through other routes, for example being...

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Farewell to ‘forever’: Destroying PFAS by Grinding it up with a new Additive

Abstract Image
Solvent-Free Nonthermal Destruction of PFAS Chemicals and PFAS in Sediment by Piezoelectric Ball Milling

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are potentially harmful substances known as “forever chemicals” because they are so difficult to destroy. One emerging technique to degrade PFAS involves forcefully grinding them with metal balls in a moving container, but this technique can require corrosive additives. Now, in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, researchers report a new type of additive for “ball milling” that completely breaks down PFAS at ambient temperature and pressure.

Solid PFAS contamination is an ongoing issue for soil near waste sites, manufacturing sites, and facilities that frequently use firefighting foam. Currently, the U.S...

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