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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Environment
Linda Geddes

What are PFAs? Everything you need to know about the ‘forever chemicals’ surrounding us every day

Royal Society of Chemistry
Bottles of cleaning products on a kitchen counter with yellow toxic stickers on them
Styling: Victoria Twyman. Photograph: Felicity McCabe/The Guardian

What are PFAS used for?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS are a group of chemicals that have been used in manufacturing and added to consumer products since the 1950s. They allow grease and dirt to slide off carpets and textiles, protect industrial equipment from heat damage and corrosion, and help to smooth and condition the skin.

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