8:2 Fluorotelomer Sulfonate (8:2 FTS)
8:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (8:2 FTS) is a higher molecular weight FTS compound included in UCMR5 monitoring. It is primarily associated with AFFF contamination and has been detected at military installations and airports. 8:2 FTS can degrade to PFOA and other long-chain PFAS compounds, making it an important indirect contributor to PFOA contamination in water systems. Its longer chain length means it is less mobile than shorter FTS compounds but has greater potential for bioaccumulation in wildlife and potentially humans.
Where 8:2 FTS comes from
Common uses
- Firefighting foam (AFFF)
- Industrial surfactants
- Textile finishing
Industries
- Firefighting
- Industrial chemicals
Health effects of 8:2 FTS exposure
Short-term effects
- Limited direct toxicological data
Long-term effects
- Degrades to PFOA and other regulated PFAS
- Liver effects suggested by metabolic products
Most vulnerable populations
- Military personnel and nearby communities
- People near airport firefighting training areas
How to remove 8:2 FTS from drinking water
- Reverse osmosis
- 91% removal
- Activated carbon
- 74% removal
- Ion exchange
- 92% removal
Is 8:2 FTS in your water? – Enter your ZIP at KnowYourExposure to see your local EPA test results.