EPA asks fluoropolymer makers to eliminate PFOA

Washington - The US Environmental Protection Agency is launching a global stewardship programme inviting manufacturers of fluoropolymers to reduce usage and emissions of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) by 95 percent by 2010 and to eliminate all use by 2015.

PFOA, also known as C8 or Ammonium Perfluorooctanoate (APFO), is used in the manufacture process of fluoropolymers, including some fluoroelastomers.

The EPA also plans to add PFOA and related chemicals to its Toxic Release Inventory to help monitor the results of the stewardship programme. PFOA is an essential processing aid in the manufacture of fluoropolymers, which are used in the production of Teflon (PTFE) and other non-stick and stain-resistant surfaces.

While the agency has not demonstrated that PFOA is a human carcinogen, it said the results of animal studies have caused concern about its possible effects on humans. Susan Hazen, acting assistant administrator for the EPA Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances, said Du Pont Co., the largest manufacturer of fluoropolymers, has already begun a programme to eliminate PFOA.

She added that she hoped other manufacturers would quickly follow suit. 1 March is the deadline for comments to the agency on the stewardship program.

From Press release from EPA