Historical and current usage of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): A literature review

BACKGROUND: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have uniquely useful chemical and physical properties, leading to their extensive industrial, commercial, and consumer applications since at least the 1950s. Some industries have publicly reported at least some degree of information regarding their PFAS use, while other industries have reported little, if any, such information publicly. METHODS: Publicly available sources were extensively researched for information. Literature searches were performed on key words via a variety of search mechanisms, including existing PFAS use and synthesis literature, patent databases, manufacturers' websites, public government databases, and library catalogs. Additional searches were conducted specifically for suspected or known uses. RESULTS: PFAS have been used in a wide variety of applications, which are summarized into several industries and applications. The expanded literature search yielded additional references as well as greater details, such as concentrations and specific PFAS used, on several previously reported uses. CONCLUSIONS: This knowledge will help inform which industries and occupations may lead to potential exposure to workers and to the environment.