In 1938, chemist Roy J. Plunkett made a groundbreaking discovery that would have a lasting impact on the world. While experimenting with refrigerant gases, he stumbled upon a compound that turned into a white, waxy solid with remarkable properties. This substance, now known as Teflon, exhibited heat and chemical resistance and was incredibly slippery. Today, over 200,000 tonnes of Teflon are produced annually and it is used in a wide range of applications, from non-stick frying pans to medical catheters. Despite its usefulness, Teflon belongs to a group of chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as forever chemicals.
The environmental and health concerns surrounding Teflon emerged almost immediately after its invention. While non-stick cookware is generally considered safe for use today, concerns were raised about the potential impacts of Teflon on our health and the environment. Increasing awareness of the dangers posed by forever chemicals has prompted action to address the issue. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently added nine forever chemicals to its list of hazardous constituents, marking a step towards regulation. Additionally, the US government has implemented limits on PFAS levels in drinking water to reduce exposure to these pervasive chemicals.
Understanding the risks associated with forever chemicals is crucial for protecting our health and the environment. Researchers are faced with the challenging task of finding ways to mitigate the presence of these substances in our lives. As awareness grows and regulatory measures are put in place, it is important to continue researching and implementing strategies to address the risks posed by forever chemicals.