Department of Ecology
June, 2023
A brief history of PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are collectively known as PFAS. The group comprises thousands of unique synthetic organic chemicals that are extremely stable and persistent. Commercially manufactured since the 1940s, PFAS compounds have been used in manufacturing common consumer products, such as carpeting, clothing, furniture, outdoor equipment, and food packaging. Many industries have also used PFAS, including aerospace, automotive, aviation, electronics, and medical industries. One major source of PFAS contamination is Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), which is used for fire training and extinguishing petroleum fires and other flammable liquids.
The Interstate Technology Regulatory Council (ITRC) has much more background information about PFAS on their webpage. Access focus sheets, databases, and their online PFAS guidance (June 2022) at https://pfas-1.itrcweb.org/.
PFAS compounds have been extensively studied since the 1990s. Testing finds PFAS present throughout all environmental media such as groundwater, soil, sediments, and surface water, and in rainwater, snow, and ice worldwide. At the time this guidance was published, however, no legally enforceable Federal environmental standards had yet been established for any of these chemicals. While numerous studies are underway to determine how to limit the distribution of these compounds and successfully mitigate their environmental impacts, much work remains to be done. Information related to PFAS investigation and remediation is rapidly evolving. This guidance is current as of the date of publication.
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