Obtaining and evaluating information on the use, release, and health effects of two types of long-chain PFAS used as alternatives for legacy long-chain perfluoroalkyl acids: a case study.

Background: Short-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are less bioaccumulative have been introduced as replacements for long-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) with the intent of reducing health risks. In contrast, alternative PFAS with longer chain lengths may be at least as bioaccumulative and toxic as phased-out long-chain PFAAs. Such alternative PFAS were used and released unbeknownst to regulatory authorities or the public, causing environmental contamination of public health concern.

Objective: The objective was to examine issues encountered in learning about use, release, and toxicity of alternative PFAS and to demonstrate development of human health benchmarks for alternative PFAS from previously unavailable health effects information.

Discussion: Environmental contamination with chloroperfluoropolyether carboxylates (ClPFPECAs) near a New Jersey fluoropolymer manufacturing facility was revealed through a joint New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)-United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Office of Research and Development study. Previously unavailable information on use, release, and toxicity of ClPFPECAs and another alternative PFAS, perfluoropolyether dicarboxylates, was obtained through a NJDEP legal directive requiring submission of information on such PFAS used in the state. It was learned that the facility discharged large amounts of these alternative PFAS to air and water for many years, both before and after use of long-chain PFAAs ended, and that they are at least as bioaccumulative and toxic in rats as long-chain PFAAs. Additionally, information from exposed workers shows that ClPFPECAs have a human half-life of several years and are associated with numerous health endpoints. Reference Doses and water concentrations protective of chronic drinking water exposure for these alternative PFAS are below those developed by NJDEP for long-chain PFAAs. The use and release of alternative PFAS described herein created concerning human health risks, unknown to regulatory authorities and the public. Such situations in other locations must be identified to allow for regulatory intervention and prevented in the future. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP15995.