Perfluorooctanesulfonate (CED0004413)

Perfluorooctanesulfonate is an organic compound with the chemical formula C8F17O3S and an average molecular weight of 499.12 g/mol. Perfluorooctanesulfonate belongs to the alkyl fluorides, a subclass of alkyl halides within the organic compounds. This compound is found in or released from 34 recorded sources across multiple sectors. These sources include electrical and electronic equipment such as cell phones, capacitors, wires and cables, batteries, and printed circuit boards. It is also present in aquatic systems and sediments, specifically in groundwater, surface water, seawater, and freshwater. Within drinking water and water supply systems, it is found in drinking water, tap water, bottled water, and desalinated water. Additionally, it is detected in wastewater, sanitation, and biosolids, including industrial wastewater, mine wastewater, wastewater treatment effluent, and unspecified wastewater. Other sources include food packaging and food contact materials used in food processing and cookware, as well as synthetic textiles, carpets, and rugs. The compound is associated with eight more sectors. Recorded exposure routes for perfluorooctanesulfonate include inhalation, oral intake, and touch.