Toxic substances list: long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs), their salts and precursors

Long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs), their salts and precursors are industrial chemicals that belong to the broad class of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are a class of thousands of human-made substances. In April 2021, the Government of Canada indicated that it is considering activities that would address PFAS as a class. Visit the PFAS web page for the latest information on publications and actions taken under the Government's Chemicals Management Plan related to PFAS.

LC-PFCAs, their salts and precursors are fluorochemicals that contain carbon atoms that are completely saturated by fluorine. It is the strength of the carbon-fluorine bonds that contributes to the extreme stability and unique properties of these fluorinated chemicals.

LC-PFCAs are compounds with chain lengths containing between 8 and 20 perfluorinated carbon atoms (C_nF_2n+1 in which 8 ≤ n ≤ 20) bonded to a carboxylic moiety (CO₂H), for a total of 9 to 21 carbons (C9-C21).

LC-PFCAs, their salts and precursors have water, oil, dirt and grease repellant properties. They can be found in a variety of products including:

• personal care products
• cleaning products
• surface treatments for:
  • textiles
  • upholstery
  • leather
  • automotive parts
  • carpet and paper products
  • packaging

They can also be found in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting, specifically fuel fires, and electrical and electronic equipment such as semi-conductors.

For more information on these substances, please visit the Chemical Substances website and the Chemicals at a glance information sheet for LC-PFCAs, theirs salts and precursors.