The Difference Between PFAS and Microplastics
Every day, whether we’re frying up breakfast on a non-stick pan, dressing for rain, or simply drinking bottled water, we interact with products that might be introducing invisible enemies into our environment. These enemies, known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and microplastics, are found in many household items and have sparked significant concern due to their durability and persistence.
So are PFAS microplastics? PFAS and microplastics are not the same. PFAS are chemicals used to make everyday items like non-stick pans and waterproof jackets resistant to heat and water. Microplastics, however, are tiny pieces of plastic that come from larger plastic items breaking down. Both can be harmful to the environment, but they are different types of substances.
The connection between microplastics and toxic PFAS chemicals
No, PFAS are not microplastics. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used in various consumer products for their resistance to heat, water, and oil.
In contrast, microplastics are small plastic particles less than five millimetres in length, which come from the breakdown of larger plastic products or are added to consumer products like exfoliants.
While both PFAS and microplastics are environmental pollutants, they are different in composition and form — PFAS are chemicals, whereas microplastics are physical particles.
Key differences between PFAS chemicals and microplastics
1. Definition
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): PFAS are a large group of manufactured chemicals that include substances like PFOA, PFOS, and GenX. Known for their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, PFAS chemicals are extremely durable and resistant to degradation in the environment.
Microplastics: These are tiny plastic particles less than five millimetres in size, originating from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or added intentionally to products such as cosmetics and industrial cleaners. Microplastics include a wide variety of plastic types and can be either primary (designed to be small) or secondary (resulting from the breakdown of larger items).
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2. Usage
PFAS: These are used in a wide range of applications. They are found in non-stick cookware, water-repellent sports gear, stain-resistant carpets and fabrics, cosmetics, and firefighting foams. Their ability to resist heat, oil, and water makes them highly valued in many industrial processes and consumer products.
Microplastics: While some microplastics are unintentionally created through the degradation of plastic waste, others are intentionally manufactured for specific uses. Microbeads, a common type of microplastic, are often added to personal care products for their abrasive properties. Other microplastics are used in industrial applications, such as blasting media.
3. Environmental impact
PFAS: PFAS do not break down in the environment, leading to long-term contamination of water, soil, and living organisms. They can accumulate in the human body, posing risks to health, including potential links to cancer, immune system suppression, and hormonal disruptions.
Microplastics: Microplastics pose a different set of challenges. They are pervasive in marine and freshwater systems and can absorb toxins on their surfaces, which may then be ingested by wildlife and enter the food chain. Microplastics have been found in the deepest parts of the ocean and atop remote mountains, indicating their widespread distribution. The physical presence of microplastics can harm organisms, block digestive tracts, and alter feeding behaviours, leading to starvation and death.
Frequently asked questions
Is PFAS bad for the environment?
Yes, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are considered highly detrimental to the environment. Due to their chemical stability and resistance to degradation, PFAS do not break down naturally in the environment and can persist for a long time.
They accumulate in the soil, water, and living organisms, leading to potential long-term ecological damage. This persistence also means that PFAS can bioaccumulate in animals and humans, posing health risks over prolonged exposure.
Are PFAS from plastics?
No, PFAS are not derived from plastics. They are synthetic chemicals that have been manufactured for their useful properties such as resistance to heat, oil, water, and stains. While PFAS may be used in the production of some plastic products to enhance their properties, they are not a primary component of plastics.
Does bottled water have PFAS?
Bottled water can contain PFAS, but the levels and presence can vary widely depending on the source of the water and the bottling process. Some studies and tests have found PFAS in several brands of bottled water, likely due to contamination at the source or through contact with PFAS-containing materials during bottling and packaging.
However, many bottled water brands meet or exceed regulatory standards for PFAS, which vary by region and country. Consumers concerned about PFAS in bottled water should look for brands that specifically test for and report PFAS levels.
Does boiling water remove PFAS?
No, boiling water does not remove PFAS. In fact, boiling may potentially concentrate PFAS because water evaporates while these chemicals remain in the water. PFAS are chemically stable and resistant to heat, which means they do not break down easily through boiling or other simple heating methods.
How do you filter PFAS out of water?
Genzon Water filters are equipped to help reduce PFAS in your drinking water. These filters use advanced filtration technology to target and reduce the presence of these chemicals, ensuring cleaner, safer water for your household. For optimal performance, be sure to replace the filters from time to time.
Are PFAS found naturally?
No, PFAS are not found naturally. They are entirely synthetic chemicals created during the 20th century for various industrial and consumer product applications. The widespread presence of PFAS in the environment is solely due to human activity, particularly industrial processes, use of PFAS-containing products, and improper disposal practices that lead to environmental contamination.
Invest in your health with Genzon Water purifiers and water bottles
Despite the differences of PFAS and microplastics, both pollutants share the troubling ability to persist in our environment, necessitating informed action and interventions.
One proactive measure you can take is to ensure the water you drink is free from harmful contaminants like PFAS. This is where Genzon Water filters come into play. These are designed to efficiently reduce the presence of PFAS and other contaminants in your drinking water, so your family has access to safe and clean water.
Take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle and a cleaner environment with our water purifiers and water bottles today.