polyfluoroalkylsubstances
nounUK /ˌpɒliˌflʊərəʊˈælkɪl ˈsʌbstənsɪz/
US /ˌpɑːliˌflʊroʊˈælkɪl ˈsʌbstənsɪz/
Human-made chemicals that are very hard to break down and can stay in water and soil for a long time.
Scientists found polyfluoroalkylsubstances in the river near the factory.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A group of synthetic chemicals used to make products resistant to water, grease, and stains.
Non-stick pans and waterproof jackets may contain polyfluoroalkylsubstances.
3. Persistent organic pollutants that can build up in living things over time.
Researchers are studying how polyfluoroalkylsubstances affect fish and wildlife.
4. Industrial substances often found in firefighting foam and food packaging.
The cleanup team tested the soil for polyfluoroalkylsubstances after the fire.