C8 Replacement Sparks Similar Health Concerns

March 6, 2017
The chemical that was supposed to be a replacement for C8 is sparking similar health concerns among scientists and activists who say it is no safer than its predecessor.

The chemical that was considered to be a replacement for C8 is sparking similar health concerns among scientists and activists who say it is no safer than its predecessor. C8, or perfluorooctanoic acid, was reportedly used byDuPont for decades before investigations and lawsuits involving the chemical forced the company to halt production. European officials will launch an investigation this month into GenX, used by DuPont, and then its spinoff company Chemours, since 2012 to make non-stick Teflon, according to an article from The Columbus Dispatch.

Companies in Europe must register chemicals with the European Chemicals Agency, according to the article.  Germany, joined by the Netherlands, will lead a study of the compound as initial tests of GenX were reportedly inconclusive. Chemours has a plant in the Dutch city of Dordrecht near Rotterdam. In June 2010, DuPont reportedly issued a statement that said GenX has a low potential to accumulate in humans and there is no evidence that the chemical is a carcinogen. According to The Dispatch, C8 is thought to remain in the environment and the body for years and has been linked to various cancers. 

Read the entire article here.

Sponsored Recommendations

Many facilities handle dangerous processes and products on a daily basis. Keeping everything under control demands well-trained people working with the best equipment.
Enhance the training experience and increase retention by training hands-on in Emerson's Interactive Plant Environment. Build skills here so you have them where and when it matters...
See how Rosemount™ 625IR Fixed Gas Detector helps keep workers safe with ultra-fast response times to detect hydrocarbon gases before they can create dangerous situations.
The Micro Motion 4700 Coriolis Transmitter offers a compact C1D1 (Zone 1) housing. Bluetooth and Smart Meter Verification are available.