Perfluorononanoic Acid (PFNA)
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) is a 9-carbon PFAS compound closely related to PFOA. It is primarily found as a byproduct or replacement chemical in fluoropolymer manufacturing. PFNA has been detected in human blood and breast milk worldwide, and it accumulates in the body over time. While less studied than PFOA and PFOS, emerging research shows comparable health concerns. The EPA set an MCL of 10 ppt for PFNA in 2024, citing thyroid disease risk and other systemic effects. PFNA is also regulated under the "hazard index" rule, which covers mixtures of certain PFAS including PFNA, PFHxS, HFPO-DA, and PFBS.
Where PFNA comes from
Common uses
- Fluoropolymer production
- Stain-resistant treatments
- Food packaging
- Surfactant manufacturing
Industries
- Chemical manufacturing
- Textiles
- Food packaging
Health effects of PFNA exposure
Short-term effects
- Liver enzyme elevation
- Hormonal disruption
Long-term effects
- Thyroid disease
- Immune suppression
- Reproductive harm
- Developmental effects in children
- Liver damage
Most vulnerable populations
- Pregnant women
- Infants
- People with thyroid conditions
How to remove PFNA from drinking water
- Reverse osmosis
- 93% removal
- Activated carbon
- 78% removal
- Ion exchange
- 94% removal
Is PFNA in your water? – Enter your ZIP at KnowYourExposure to see your local EPA test results.