Water Quality in Ames, IA

What is Perfluorobutanesulfonic acid?

Part of a class of synthetic compounds known as polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) widely used to make products more resistant to stains, water, and grease. For example, PFAS have been used in nonstick cookware, textiles, food packaging, electronics, cleaners, and many other consumer products.

Health Effects

As with many PFAS compounds, research into the health effects of PFBS is rapidly evolving. Animal studies have identified associations between PFBS and toxicity to the thyroid, liver, and kidneys as well as adverse effects to fetal development. Studies suggest that pregnant women and their developing fetuses are the most susceptible subpopulations for these adverse health effects due to hormone disruption.

Affected Organs

Common Sources

Certified Filter Standards

What is Perfluorohexanoic acid?

Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) is part of a class of synthetic compounds known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) widely used to make products more resistant to stains, water, and grease. PFHxA is not currently commercially produced, but results from the breakdown of other PFAS and as a potential impurity in chemical processing. Like many other PFAS, it is highly persistent in the environment and the body. Adverse health effects associated with elevated PFHxA levels include liver and developmental toxicity.

Health Effects

As with many PFAS compounds, research into the health effects of PFHxA is rapidly evolving. Animal studies show associations between PFHxA and liver toxicity, as well as developmental effects (low birth weight and offspring mortality).

Affected Organs

Common Sources

Certified Filter Standards

What is Chloroform?

Member of trihalomethanes (THMs) that form in water treated with chlorine and is generally the most abundant THM formed in drinking water

Health Effects

Health protective benchmarks for chloroform have been developed based on kidney and liver carcinogenicity observed in animal studies, and liver toxicity observed in occupational studies. The EPA classifies chloroform as a probable human carcinogen based on animal evidence, and there is additional epidemiological evidence that may increase the risk of colon and bladder cancer in humans. Results from animal studies also suggest that exposure to chloroform can cause liver, developmental and immune toxicity. Acute exposure to low levels of chloroform will cause nervous system toxicity.

Affected Organs

Common Sources

Certified Filter Standards

What is Perfluorobutanoic acid?

Part of a class of synthetic compounds known as polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) widely used to make products more resistant to stains, water, and grease. PFBA is a breakdown product of other PFAS compounds used in food packaging, stain resistant clothing and carpets, and was previously manufactured and used in the manufacturing of photographic film but has since been phased out of production.

Health Effects

As with many PFAS compounds, research into the health effects of PFBA is rapidly evolving. Animal studies have shown associations between elevated PFBA levels and liver and thyroid toxicity, as well as developmental effects.

Affected Organs

Common Sources

Certified Filter Standards