Having long been used across a number of major industries, awareness of the problems surrounding PFAS chemicals are now becoming increasingly discussed. IDTechEx's portfolio of Sustainability Research Reports and Subscriptions covers PFAS restrictions, and removal and destruction methods worldwide, with forecasts and main targeted sectors.
A PFAS overview
The term PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are synthetic compounds containing at least one fully fluorinated methyl or methylene carbon, per the OECD's definition, and encompasses a wide range of chemicals. High physical and chemical stability is one reason for the popularity of PFAS chemicals, as well as their ability to repel water and oil. They are therefore utilized across many applications, from textiles and upholstery to semiconductor manufacturing. Over a quarter of a million tonnes of PFAS chemicals were being used per year as of 2020, with IDTechEx also stating that this figure is likely to have been understated. IDTechEx's report, "PFAS Regulations, Alternatives, Removal, and Destruction 2027-2037: Technologies, Players, Market Outlook", contains more details.
Worldwide PFAS regulations
Awareness has recently been increasing of the long lasting and irremovable qualities of some PFAS chemicals, the build-up of which within the human body can now be linked to multiple health conditions.
Within the EU, the ECHA has been deliberating over a widespread PFAS restriction since 2023 in order to prevent the bioaccumulative nature of the chemicals from causing further damage, however, IDTechEx reports this is still an ongoing decision. IDTechEx also estimates that should this motion be approved, it would likely not take effect until 2029 at the earliest as a result of various protocols. More information on this timeline is detailed within the PFAS Regulations report.
Many molecules included within this proposed ban include chemicals that are used in applications such as non-stick coatings for cookware, refrigerants, PPE for armed forces, additives to hydraulic fluids, preservation materials, and fire suppressing gases, amongst others. These examples demonstrate the vast range of PFAS applications, which can be difficult to regulate with one general ban, which is partly why any restrictions that may come into play are likely to take a long time. There are also cases where derogation is likely for industries in which PFAS use is still currently necessary.
In the US, IDTechEx reports that strong PFAS regulations are not expected to be adopted any time soon, differing greatly from the ongoing motivations within Europe. Although there were proposed maximum contaminant limits for six specific PFAS molecules in drinking water expected from 2029, IDTechEx now states that under the Trump administration, the EPA is attempting to roll back these limits to only two PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) and extend the compliance deadline to 2031. PFAS regulations are also known to vary by state, meaning it is difficult to enforce a one size fits all solution. A detailed breakdown of different state regulations is covered in the report.
Within the Asia-Pacific region, multiple limits and laws are in place. Discharge limits and the 'Law of the PRC on the Safety of Hazardous Chemicals' are active in China, while legislations on a few PFAS chemicals and drinking water monitoring are taking place in Korea. In Japan, over 138 PFAS chemicals are banned in cosmetics.
PFAS removal and destruction
Granular activated carbon (GAC) has had much of the focus where PFAS removal technologies are concerned, as it efficiently adsorbs long-chain PFAS chemicals, is low cost, and is the most studied approach for removing PFAS and many other pollutants from water. However, ion-exchange (IX) is another approach explored by IDTechEx which could be used to capture any remaining molecules. While ion-exchange resins can be tailored for selectivity and can have higher adsorption abilities, they come at a higher upfront cost. Destruction technologies are then critical for permanently mineralizing the PFAS captured by GAC, IX, or other methods. Recent testing has provided encouraging results for incineration, improving the overall perception of this technology.
For more information surrounding the PFAS market, regulations, removal and destruction, visit IDTechEx's portfolio of Sustainability Research Reports and Subscriptions for the latest developments.
