Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industrial applications and consumer products due to their resistance to heat, water, and oil. However, they are persistent in the environment and human body, raising concerns about potential adverse health effects and environmental contamination.
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Concept
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a fire suppressant used primarily for flammable liquid fires, creating a film that suffocates the fire and prevents re-ignition. However, its environmental impact is significant due to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are persistent and potentially harmful pollutants.
Firefighting foams, particularly those containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have raised significant environmental concerns due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential toxicity. The contamination of soil and water sources by these foams poses risks to ecosystems and human health, prompting regulatory actions and the development of alternative, less harmful firefighting agents.
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