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CAS 68515-62-8

1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, dimethyl ester, reaction products with bis(2-hydroxyethyl)terephthalate, ethylene glycol, α-fluoro-ω-(2-hydroxyethyl)poly(difluoromethylene), hexakis(methoxymethyl)melamine and polyethylene glycol

This is a fluorinated polymer mixture used to make stain- and water-repellent coatings on fabrics, paper, and paints. It can release or break down into persistent PFAS that build up in people and the environment [1][2].

Where It Comes From

A “side‑chain fluorinated” polymer made by reacting polyester components with fluorinated alcohols and melamine; used in stain‑resistant carpets, upholstery, apparel, paper/food packaging, and protective coatings [2][6].

How You Are Exposed

Indoor air and dust from treated products; applying sprays or finishes; contaminated drinking water near manufacturing or waste sites; contact with treated food packaging [1][2].

Why It Matters

PFAS are extremely persistent; some related PFAS are linked to developmental, immune, liver effects and certain cancers. These polymers can contain residual fluorotelomer alcohols and transform into perfluoroalkyl acids over time [1][2][3][6].

Who Is at Risk

Workers in textile, paper, and coating facilities; people living near PFAS plants or waste sites; pregnant people, infants, and children [1][2].

How to Lower Your Exposure

Choose PFAS‑free/“fluorine‑free” products; skip optional stain‑resistant treatments; ventilate during use; clean with HEPA vacuum and damp dusting; wash hands; use certified filters (activated carbon or reverse osmosis) and follow local water advisories [1][2][4][5].

References

  1. [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls. 2021. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp200.pdf
  2. [2]EPA. PFAS Explained (Basic Information). https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
  3. [3]IARC. Monographs Vol. 131: PFOA and PFOS. 2023. https://publications.iarc.fr/602
  4. [4]ATSDR/CDC. Reduce Exposure to PFAS. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/reduce-exposure.html
  5. [5]EPA. Final PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation – Fact Sheet. 2024. https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
  6. [6]OECD. Side‑Chain Fluorinated Polymers and Their Degradability. 2018. https://www.oecd.org/chemicalsafety/side-chain-fluorinated-polymers.pdf

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