13 Aug Understanding PFAS in Water for Manufacturing
Manufacturers in Ireland are facing a significant challenge: PFAS. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” these compounds are now facing strict regulation in both the United States and the European Union. To address this critical issue, Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) hosted an informative webinar “Understanding PFAS in Water | Essential Knowledge for Manufacturing”
In Europe, TULAC (textiles, upholstery, leather, apparel, carpets), medical devices, food contact materials and packaging, transport, construction products, electronics and semiconductors, lubricants, petroleum and mining, energy sector, metal plating and manufacturer of metal products, cosmetics, consumer mixtures, and ski wax were reported as major sectors and manufacture in 2020 on tonnages and emissions according to a report issued by the European Chemicals Agency.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) points out that PFAS can be found in numerous everyday products, including outdoor clothing, textiles, paints, food packaging, photographic coatings, non-stick cookware coatings, and fire-fighting foam, as an example.
Some PFAS have been associated with increased cancer risk, elevated cholesterol levels, reproductive disorders, hormonal disruption, and weakened immune systems.
This presentation looks at:
- What are PFAS?
- Where are they used?
- What is the problem with PFAS?
- What can be done about it?
- As a manufacturer that uses PFAS, what do I need to know?
If you are a manufacturer in any sector affected by these compounds, this presentation is tailored to provide you with the essential knowledge required to navigate the ever-changing regulatory environment.
Presenter: Dr Catherine McIntyre
Dr Catherine McIntyre is a Water Technologist at IMR, working with the water nexus on implementing the True Cost of Water framework, as well as supporting sustainable water practices in manufacturing. She has a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Galway and a PhD in Biogeochemistry from the University of Bristol. Catherine also has experience in environmental microbiology, freshwater monitoring, wastewater treatment, and water technology innovation. Her diverse professional background has led to the development of skills in project management, R&D, technology development, and communication having worked in various roles as a senior scientist in a water technology start-up, research analyst and analytical scientist.