Understanding PFAS and Fluorination

PFAS, also known as per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a class of chemicals used in various industrial applications, including the fluorination process. Recent studies have found that the fluorination process used during the manufacturing of certain types of plastic bottles can lead to the formation of PFAS.

Concerns about PFAS chemicals leaching into products stored in treated plastic containers has sparked questions and safety concerns. At Graham Packaging, fluorination is not part of our manufacturing process, and we offer alternative solutions to help achieve the same barrier properties without the use of PFAS.

Read on to learn more about PFAS, the fluorination process and the alternative solutions Graham Packaging offers that can help provide safe plastic packaging, as well as comply with evolving regulatory requirements related to PFAS.

What are PFAS?
PFAS belong to a class of more than 15,000 chemicals used in hundreds of types of products.  First introduced in the 1940s, PFAS are present in products that help repel water, grease and stains like:

• Stain and water-resistant fabrics and carpeting
• Nonstick cooking pans
• Personal care products (nail polish, eye makeup, shampoo)
• Firefighting foam
• Food packaging (microwave popcorn bags, takeout containers, fast food wrappers)

Fluorination: The Process Behind PFAS
Fluorination is a process used to create a barrier that prevents chemicals from leaching out of plastic containers while also preventing substances from permeating a container.

Most often, fluorination is used for items that emit fumes (like acetone, paint thinners and gasoline) or agricultural products (like fertilizer, weed killer and insecticides).

The Problem with PFAS
PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily and can remain in the environment for decades. Over time, PFAS can leak into the soil, water and air.  Due to the widespread use of PFAS and their persistence in the environment, nearly all people in the U.S. have had exposure to PFAS.

Exposure to PFAS can come from a variety of sources, including:

• Contaminated drinking water
• Eating fish caught from water contaminated by PFAS
• Eating food (meat, dairy and vegetables) produced near places where PFAS were used or made or eating food packaged in material that contains PFAS

Because there are thousands of varieties of PFAS chemicals, it is hard to study them all. However, research is ongoing and thus far have conducted possible links between human exposure to certain PFAS and adverse health outcomes such as:

• Altered metabolism and body weight regulation and risk of childhood obesity
• Increased risk of some cancers
• Reduced ability of the immune system to fight infections

Graham Alternatives to Fluorination
Graham offers a suite of different technical solutions that can help achieve the same barrier properties as fluorination without the use of harmful PFAS chemicals, including:

• Barrier Solutions – Our multilayer and monolayer barriers help prevent transmission of harmful chemicals.
• Laboratory Testing Capabilities – Ability to conduct permeation testing for customers.
• Engineering Expertise – Our experts can find a solution to fit your needs and keep you in compliance with PFAS regulations.

The effectiveness and cost of these solutions depend on the type and aggressiveness of the chemical.

Graham Packaging is your partner in alternative barrier solutions that help to protect your product and the environment. To learn more, email sales@grahampackaging.com.