3M, St. Paul, Minn., is phasing out
and finding substitutes for the perfluorooctanyl sulfate (PFOS) chemistry used to produce certain
repellents. Among the affected product lines are many Scotchgard products used on textile products
including carpets and upholstery fabrics.
Citing increasing attention to the appropriate use and management of persistent materials,
Dr. Charles Reich, executive vice president, Specialty Material Markets, said, “While this
chemistry has been used effectively for more than 40 years and our products are safe, our decision
to phase out production is based on our principles of responsible environmental management.”
In a message relayed through the Carpet and Rug Institute, Dalton, Ga., 3M stated, “…you can
continue to sell all of your current products treated with 3M Scotchgard protection under the
existing labels.”
Sophisticated testing capabilities have detected PFOS broadly at extremely low levels in the
environment and in people. While existing scientific knowledge indicates that its presence at these
levels does not pose a human health or environmental risk, the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) indicates a potential long-term risk could be associated with its use.
“EPA will work with the company on the development of substitutes to ensure that those
chemicals are safe for the environment,” said EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner. “3M deserves
great credit for identifying this problem and coming forward voluntarily.”
July 2000
