Recent research has shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of consumer products: the emission of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from everyday items like rain jackets. Conducted by Clara M.A. Eichler and her team at the Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering at the Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, this study highlights the potential indoor air quality risks associated with these widely used waterproof materials.
PFAS, including fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs), are synthetic chemicals prized for their water-, stain-, and grease-repellent properties. This makes them particularly common in functional clothing such as rain jackets. However, the implications of their emissions have not been thoroughly explored until now. The research team utilized a sophisticated test chamber connected to a high-resolution time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometer to measure the emission rates of FTOHs from ten rain jackets and one backpack cover, categorizing them as old, new, or “PFAS-free.”
What they found was striking. All tested materials emitted FTOHs, with older jackets exhibiting higher peak emission rates compared to their newer counterparts. “Our results suggest that older jackets, likely due to wear and tear, release more of these substances into the air,” said Eichler. This is particularly concerning for indoor environments where such products are frequently used and stored.
The study also revealed that the emissions were significantly lower after airing out the products, indicating that initial exposure could pose a higher risk. “It’s essential for consumers to be aware that their clothing can be a source of indoor exposure to harmful substances,” Eichler added. The findings suggest that while “PFAS-free” materials showed the lowest emission rates, the prevalence of PFAS-containing products in homes could contribute to long-term exposure risks.
For the construction industry, this research could signal a shift in how materials are selected for projects, particularly in residential settings. As consumer awareness grows regarding the potential health impacts of PFAS, builders and developers may need to reconsider the materials they use, especially in homes where indoor air quality is paramount. This could lead to a demand for more transparent labeling and stricter regulations around the use of PFAS in consumer products, influencing everything from product design to marketing strategies.
The implications of this study extend beyond consumer awareness; they could reshape industry standards and practices. As the construction sector grapples with the challenge of balancing functionality and safety, research published in ‘Indoor Environments’ (translated to “Ambientes Internos”) serves as a crucial call to action. For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit lead_author_affiliation.
As the dialogue around PFAS continues to evolve, this study underscores the need for vigilance in monitoring and mitigating the risks associated with synthetic chemicals in our everyday lives.
