Trifluoroacetic acid in the environment: Consensus, gaps, and next steps

While current research suggests TFA concentrations in oceans remain below toxic thresholds for aquatic and terrestrial organisms, key uncertainties persist regarding natural and anthropogenic sources, regional distribution patterns, and long-term marine ecosystem impacts.

Scientists recommend further research, including comprehensive production inventories, advanced atmospheric-hydrological modeling, expanded ocean measurements, and more extensive marine toxicity testing to definitively understand TFA's environmental behavior and potential ecological consequences.