how forever chemicals polluted the world #worldresearchaward #carbon-fluorine #atoms #medical

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Forever chemicals" — technically known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — are remarkably useful things. They're also among the most dangerous pollutants on the planet, says investigative journalist Mariah Blake.


The many carbon-fluorine bonds in these chemicals, consisting of an alkyl chain connected to multiple fluorine atoms, are considered the strongest in organic chemistry.

This makes them remarkably resistant to heat, water, and chemical corrosion, giving them applications in everything from nonstick cookware to firefighting foam, medical devices and waterproof clothing. In fact, their first major application after their invention was in separating weapons-grade uranium isotopes from corrosive gas for the Manhattan Project, assisting in the creation of the first atomic bomb.


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