CAS 754-91-6: Perfluorooctanesulfonamide

Perfluorooctanesulfonamide (PFOS) is an organic compound that is used as a surfactant in fire-fighting foams and metalworking fluids. PFOS is highly toxic to humans and animals, and it can persist for long periods of time in the environment. It has been shown to inhibit the activity of several enzymes, including carboxylesterase, acetylcholinesterase, and butyrylcholinesterase, which are essential for proper functioning of the liver cells. PFOS also inhibits the oxidation of fatty acids by hydroxyl radicals in vitro, leading to lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, PFOS has been shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies. The degradation process for PFOS includes hydrolysis by esterases or glucuronidases and oxidation by cytochrome P450 enzymes or glutathione reductase.

Applications Perfluorooctanesulfo​namide is a longer chain fluorinated surfactant used in polymers. Used in aqueous film firm-forming foam to extinguish hydrocarbon-based fires. References nderson, R. H. et al.: Chemosphere., 150, 678 (2016); Loefstedt G. et al.: Env. Sci. Tech., 50, 653 (2016);

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