Environmental Science & Technology Letters Study Reveals PFHxA Concentrations Up to 16,000 PPB
University of Notre Dame researchers discovered dangerous perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) levels in smartwatch bands, with concentrations reaching 16,000 parts per billion in premium models. The December 18, 2024 study, published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, tested 22 commercial wristbands across various price points. The research team detected PFHxA in nine of the tested bands, with expensive fluoroelastomer models showing the highest contamination levels. These findings mark the highest forever chemical concentrations ever recorded in wearable consumer products.
5 Key Points
- University of Notre Dame scientists found PFHxA in 41% of tested smartwatch bands.
- Premium fluoroelastomer wristbands contained PFHxA levels of 16,000 parts per billion.
- Bands priced above $30 showed higher chemical concentrations than those under $15.
- Two unlabeled bands contained fluorine without disclosing fluoroelastomer content.
- Lead author Alyssa Wicks recommends consumers choose silicone alternatives.
Notre Dame Study Records Highest PFHxA Levels in Consumer Wearables History
Professor Graham Peaslee’s research team at the University of Notre Dame detected median PFHxA concentrations of 800 parts per billion across tested smartwatch bands, quadrupling the 200 ppb found in their 2023 cosmetics study. The December 2024 analysis revealed peak concentrations of 16,000 ppb in premium fluoroelastomer bands. “This discovery stands out because of the very high concentrations of one type of forever chemical found in items that are in prolonged contact with our skin,” Peaslee emphasized. The research team identified the manufacturing process of fluoroelastomers, synthetic rubbers created using PFAS chains, as the likely source of these unprecedented contamination levels.
Premium Watchbands Show 400% Higher Chemical Content Than Previous Studies
Notre Dame researchers analyzed 22 commercial wristbands, discovering all 13 bands marketed as fluoroelastomer-containing tested positive for fluorine compounds. Their investigation revealed bands priced above $30 contained substantially higher fluorine concentrations than those under $15. Two additional lower-priced bands contained undisclosed fluorine compounds, exposing potential labeling inconsistencies in the wearable technology market. The team’s chemical extraction process identified PFHxA as the predominant PFAS compound across contaminated samples.
Scientists Call for Urgent Research on Skin Absorption Rates
While manufacturers add PFAS chemicals to create sweat-resistant, durable materials for exercise, the research team has not determined PFHxA’s skin absorption rate during regular smartwatch wear. Lead author Alyssa Wicks directed consumers toward safer alternatives: “If the consumer wishes to purchase a higher-priced band, we suggest that they read the product descriptions and avoid any that are listed as containing fluoroelastomers.” The team noted recent studies suggest significant skin absorption could occur under normal wearing conditions, prompting calls for an immediate investigation into potential health impacts.
FAQ
Q: Which smartwatch bands contain the highest levels of PFHxA?
A: Bands priced over $30 made from fluoroelastomers showed the highest PFHxA levels, with one sample measuring 16,000 parts per billion.
Q: How do I identify bands containing forever chemicals?
A: Check product descriptions for terms like “fluoroelastomers” or “fluorinated synthetic rubber.” Silicone bands typically don’t contain these chemicals.
Q: What health risks exist from wearing contaminated bands?
A: Scientists haven’t determined PFHxA’s skin absorption rate or health effects, though recent studies indicate significant absorption may occur during normal wear.
Q: Which smartwatch bands offer safer alternatives?
A: Study lead Alyssa Wicks recommends lower-cost silicone wristbands over fluoroelastomer options for reduced PFAS exposure.
Q: Why do manufacturers use these chemicals?
A: PFAS chemicals create materials that repel water, sweat, and oil while preventing discoloration and dirt accumulation, making bands more durable.
Citations
Stephen Beech (December 18, 2024). Toxic forever chemicals found in some smartwatch wristbands. WFXG. https://www.wfxg.com/toxic-forever-chemicals-found-in-some-smartwatch-wristbands/article_d41a215d-4d0d-5bb0-84f9-1e089ca77a11.html
