PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of manmade chemicals used across many facets of our lives. Over 12,000 different PFAS chemicals are in use today, including in our building materials. PFAS chemicals give products unique properties like thermal stability, durability, and the ability to repel water, sweat, grease, and stains. Unfortunately, the properties that make PFAS attractive for consumer and commercial use also contribute to potential exposure and human health risks. That’s because PFAS chemicals do not readily degrade. That means they can exist in the environment or the human body for decades. Hence the nickname “forever chemicals”.
This course begins with an overview of PFAS, focusing on their environmental persistence and potential health impacts. It then discusses their specific applications in the commercial design sector, highlighting how these chemicals can inadvertently become part of our indoor environments. Finally, the course explores current research and developments in alternative materials that offer similar functional benefits without the environmental and health risks associated with PFAS.
Designed for architects, specifiers, and industry stakeholders, this course aims to inform and inspire a shift towards more sustainable and health-conscious material choices.
This course is also available through the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) online course catalog. Take the course there to have your GBCI CE hours reported automatically on your behalf. Course completions on Chemical Insights Research Institute’s E-Learning Center can be self-reported for CE hours.
PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of manmade chemicals used across many facets of our lives. Over 12,000 different PFAS chemicals are in use today, including in our building materials. PFAS chemicals give products unique properties like thermal stability, durability, and the ability to repel water, sweat, grease, and stains. Unfortunately, the properties that make PFAS attractive for consumer and commercial use also contribute to potential exposure and human health risks. That’s because PFAS chemicals do not readily degrade. That means they can exist in the environment or the human body for decades. Hence the nickname “forever chemicals”.
This course begins with an overview of PFAS, focusing on their environmental persistence and potential health impacts. It then discusses their specific applications in the commercial design sector, highlighting how these chemicals can inadvertently become part of our indoor environments. Finally, the course explores current research and developments in alternative materials that offer similar functional benefits without the environmental and health risks associated with PFAS.
Designed for architects, specifiers, and industry stakeholders, this course aims to inform and inspire a shift towards more sustainable and health-conscious material choices.
This course is also available through the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) online course catalog. Take the course there to have your GBCI CE hours reported automatically on your behalf. Course completions on Chemical Insights Research Institute’s E-Learning Center can be self-reported for CE hours.
