Determination of Fluorotelomer Alcohols in Cookware Using Cryogen-free Direct Thermal Extraction

Fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs), a class of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are commonly used in products due to their non-stick properties, which are desirable in cookware. FTOHs are precursors to perfluoroalkyl carboxylates, both of which are harmful to human health. As a result, consumers are seeking PFAS-free alternatives to cookware, such as stainless steel. This study employs direct thermal extraction (DTE) in a cryogen-free approach to determine the concentration of FTOHs in non-stick, PFOA/PFOS-free, and stainless-steel cookware.