PFAS, what are these chemicals?
27/11/2024
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) refers to a group of chemicals used to create fluoropolymer coatings that provide resistance to heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. But, besides that, they also carry implications for the human being.
We can find PFAS in a wide range of products and industrial applications. Nowadays, these chemicals are recognized for their persistence in the environment and their potential chronic toxicity. Consequently, they have been classified as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) under the Stockholm Convention, and their use has decreased.
Challenges
During demolition, pre-demolition or decontamination processes, the manage of the PFASs involves some challenges, including identifying the specific types of chemicals involved and their toxicities or identifying the most effective sampling and decontamination methods. In addition, it is also essential to establish the number of tests required to ensure that the demolition we perform is safe and sustainable. More information can be found in EDI Special Publication 2024 and in EDI Special Publications 2023.
