PFOA is used as a necessary processing aid in the manufacture of fluoropolymers. Fluoropolymers have many valuable properties, including their fire resistance and ability to repel oil, stain, grease and water. This makes them ideal for use in providing a non-stick surface for cookware and protective coatings on clothing.

PFOA's are employed in 100's of industrial uses, including within the fields of aerospace, automotive, building and construction, chemical processing, electronics, semiconductors and textile industries.

Interestingly, though fluoropolymers are made using PFOA, the finished products are not expected to contain PFOA. Thus the question then becomes, if PFOA's are not to be found in the final forms of products, why is the world now taking important notice of PFOA's?

What are the uses of PFOA?
Why is the world now taking notice?
What action is being taken?
Can consumers reduce exposure to PFOA?

How do people get exposed to PFOA?
What products contain PFOA?
Are there reasonable alternatives to the use of PFOA?

What companies manufacture PFOA?
Is PFOA present in drinking water, food or air?
Where will the discussion of these concerns go from here?