PFAS Substances: Not a Concern for PVC Pipe
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 4,700 compounds made up of fluorinated carbon chains. PFAS are commonly used across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction, cosmetics, and electronics, and are found in products like firefighting foam and non-stick cookware. Some PFAS compounds have been identified as harmful to human health. This document aims to reassure utilities and their customers that PVC pipes do not contribute to the presence of PFAS in drinking water. Addressing PFAS in Drinking Water PFAS can contaminate drinking water due to widespread environmental pollution. In response, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established national primary drinking water standards for six types of PFAS, limiting the permissible amounts in potable water systems. PFAS: Not From PVC Materials or Manufacturing PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe is primarily made from PVC resin, combined with other ingredients to form a compound that is...