Jaewoo Choi

“The effect of PFAs alternatives, focusing on PFECA (Perfluoroether Carboxylic Acids) and 6:2 FTS Fluorotelomer Sulfonate), on marine organisms, and their potential structural causes”

Started Dec. 3, 2024

Abstract or project description

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used industrial chemicals that have high resistance to heat, water, and oil. However, such persistence in the environment causing significant concerns, prompting the development of alternative substances compounds such as perfluoroalkyl ether carboxylic acids (PFECAs) and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS). Although these alternatives were initially marketed as safer replacements for legacy PFAS like perfluoro octane sulfonate (PFOS), emerging research suggests that such belief isn’t real. This review critically evaluates the structural properties, bioaccumulation potential, and toxicity profiles of PFECAs and 6:2 FTS in comparison to PFOS. Findings indicate that certain long-chain PFECAs, especially hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid (HFPO-TrA), exhibit high bioaccumulation potential and serious hepatotoxic effects, potentially causing worse effects on the environmental and health risks than PFOS. Meanwhile, 6:2 FTS demonstrates lower acute toxicity, but its environmental persistence and potential for long-term bioaccumulation remain uncertain. Through a critical analysis of how structural components of these PFAs alternatives may lead to biological harm, this review highlights the gaps between industries’ claims of safety and scientific evidence that disagree with such claim. The results suggest that PFECAs pose equal or greater risks than PFOS, while 6:2 FTS, although less acutely toxic, still presents long-term eco-logical concerns. Given these findings, further research is required to establish even clearer structure-toxicity relationships, develop scientifically grounded regulations, and design truly safer PFAS alternatives that minimize environmental and human health risks.