PFHxS Toxicity

PFHxS (Perfluorohexane Sulfonic Acid)

What is PFHxS (Perfluorohexane Sulfonic Acid)?

PFHxS (Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid) is also ubiquitous in the environment. One study detected PFHxS in nearly all people tested for PFASs.

An analysis of water and fish contaminated by an accidental release of firefighting foam in Canada found a small amount of PFHxS.A Swedish study detected high levels of several PFASs, including PFHxS, in firefighters compared to a control group and a 2020 study found that female San Francisco firefighters, as compared to office workers, had more than twice the levels of serum PFHxS (along with raised levels of PFUnDA and PFNA).

PFHxS has been found to alter development in rats, especially in the reproductive system. PFHxS and other PFASs have been detected in breast milk, and it was concluded that breastfeeding is a considerable source of exposure to perfluorinated chemicals for infants. Despite these findings, breastfeeding remains the best option for newborn and infant nutrition.

How is Perfluorohexane-1-sulphonic acid (PFHxS) used in products?

PFHxS could be found as a replacement or impurity of PFOS, which is used as a water or stain repellent chemical in textile and leather. So, if your business manufactures, imports, or retails textile and leather products into the European Union, then you need to be aware of this new regulation.

Sectors affected by PFHxS

Product sectors likely to be affected by this new SVHC include:

  • Footwear
  • Bags and luggage
  • Leather and textile accessories
  • Clothing
  • Upholstery
  • Outdoor apparel

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