Perfluorobutane Sulfonic Acid (PFBS)
Perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) is a 4-carbon PFAS that was developed as a short-chain replacement for PFOS. 3M introduced it as a safer alternative under the brand name "Novec." However, PFBS has been found to be highly water-soluble and mobile in the environment, leading to widespread groundwater contamination. Although its individual EPA MCL is much higher (2,000 ppt) than PFOA or PFOS, PFBS is included in the hazard index rule–meaning its presence alongside other PFAS compounds counts against a combined limit. Studies show PFBS can affect thyroid hormone levels even at lower concentrations.
Where PFBS comes from
Common uses
- Replacement for PFOS in many applications
- Stain-resistant treatments
- Industrial surfactants
- Fire suppressants
Industries
- Textiles
- Chemical manufacturing
- Firefighting
Health effects of PFBS exposure
Short-term effects
- Thyroid hormone disruption
Long-term effects
- Thyroid disease
- Developmental neurotoxicity
- Kidney effects
Most vulnerable populations
- Pregnant women (fetal thyroid development)
- Children
- People with thyroid disorders
How to remove PFBS from drinking water
- Reverse osmosis
- 85% removal
- Activated carbon
- 60% removal
- Ion exchange
- 88% removal
Is PFBS in your water? – Enter your ZIP at KnowYourExposure to see your local EPA test results.