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Zhang H, Chen Y, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Relationships between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and physical-chemical parameters in aqueous landfill samples. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 329:138541. [PMID: 36996915 PMCID: PMC10680781 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Variable chemistries of liquids from landfills can potentially impact levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The objective of the current study was to evaluate relationships between physical-chemical properties (bulk measurements, oxygen demand components, and metals) and PFAS concentrations in different types of aqueous landfill samples. Aqueous landfill samples were collected from 39 landfill facilities in Florida, United States. These samples included leachates from landfills that receive different waste types, such as municipal solid waste incineration ash (MSWA), construction and demolition debris (C&D), and municipal solid waste (MSW). Additional aqueous landfill samples were sourced from treated landfill leachate, gas condensate, stormwater, and groundwater from within and near the landfill boundaries. Results showed significant correlations (p < 0.05) between ∑26PFAS and alkalinity (rs = 0.83), total organic carbon (TOC) (rs = 0.84), and ammonia (rs = 0.79) for all leachate types. Other physical-chemical parameters that were significantly correlated (rs > 0.60, p < 0.05) with PFAS included specific conductivity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and to a lesser extent, total dissolved solids (TDS) and total solids (TS). For gas condensates, PFAS was significantly correlated with TOC. Stormwater and groundwater, within and near the landfill boundaries, had considerably lower levels of PFAS and had a minimal correlation between PFAS and physical-chemical parameters. Although PFAS concentrations and physical-chemical parameters and their correlations varied between different types of aqueous landfill samples, results suggest that physical-chemical properties can be useful indicators of relative PFAS concentrations within a leachate type. More research is needed to validate the mechanisms that relate physical-chemical parameters to PFAS concentrations in landfill leachates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
| | - Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, 45268, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States.
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Ehsan MN, Riza M, Pervez MN, Khyum MMO, Liang Y, Naddeo V. Environmental and health impacts of PFAS: Sources, distribution and sustainable management in North Carolina (USA). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 878:163123. [PMID: 37001657 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of manufactured chemicals that have recently attracted a great deal of attention from environmental regulators and the general public because of their high prevalence, resistance to degradation, and potential toxicity. This review summarizes the current state of PFAS and its effects on the environment of North Carolina, USA. Specific emphasis has been placed to identify i) the sources of PFAS in North Carolina ii) distribution of PFAS in different environmental segments of North Carolina, including surface water, groundwater, air, and sediment iii) drinking water contamination iv) impact of PFAS on human health v) PFAS accumulation in fish and other biota vi) status of PFAS removal from drinking water and finally vi) socioeconomic impact of PFAS uncertainties. Continuous discharges of PFAS occur in the North Carolina environment from direct and indirect sources, including manufacturing sites, firefighting foam, waste disposal and treatment plants, landfill leachate, and industrial emissions. PFAS are widespread in many environmental segments of North Carolina. They are more likely to be detected in surface and groundwater sediments and can enter aquatic bodies through direct discharge and wet and dry deposition of emissions. Eventually, some adverse effects of PFAS have already been reported in North Carolina residents who could have been exposed to the chemicals through contaminated drinking water. Furthermore, PFAS were also found in blood samples from fish and alligators. PFAS were confirmed to be present in water, sediment, organic compounds, and aquatic species at all levels of the food web. However, there is still a substantial amount of work to be done to understand the actual contamination by PFAS in North Carolina comprehensively.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mumtahina Riza
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7617, Raleigh, NC 27695-7617, USA.
| | - Md Nahid Pervez
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, 66 University of Salerno, Fisciano 84084, Italy; Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | | | - Yanna Liang
- Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Vincenzo Naddeo
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED), Department of Civil Engineering, 66 University of Salerno, Fisciano 84084, Italy.
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Timshina AS, Sobczak WJ, Griffin EK, Lin AM, Townsend TG, Bowden JA. Up in the air: Polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs) in airborne dust captured by air conditioning (AC) filters. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 325:138307. [PMID: 36878365 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitously present in our indoor living environments. Dust is thought to accumulate PFAS released indoors and serve as an exposure pathway for humans. Here, we investigated whether spent air conditioning (AC) filters can be exploited as opportunistic samplers of airborne dust for assessing PFAS burden in indoor environments. Used AC filters from campus facilities (n = 19) and homes (n = 11) were analyzed for 92 PFAS via targeted ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). While 27 PFAS were measured (in at least one filter), the predominant species were polyfluorinated dialkylated phosphate esters (diPAPs), with the sum of 6:2-, 8:2-, and 6:2/8:2diPAPs accounting for approximately 95 and 98 percent of ∑27PFAS in campus and household filters, respectively. Exploratory screening of a subset of the filters revealed the presence of additional species of mono-, di-, and tri-PAPs. Considering the constant human exposure to dust indoors and the potential of PAPs to degrade into terminal species with well-established toxicological risks, assessing dust for these precursor PFAS warrants further investigation with respect to both human health and PFAS loading to landfills from this under studied waste stream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina S Timshina
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - William J Sobczak
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Emily K Griffin
- University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Ashley M Lin
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA; University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
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54
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Capozzi SL, Leang AL, Rodenburg LA, Chandramouli B, Delistraty DA, Carter CH. PFAS in municipal landfill leachate: Occurrence, transformation, and sources. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 334:138924. [PMID: 37209854 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
To understand sources and processes affecting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), 32 PFAS were measured in landfill leachate from 17 landfills across Washington State in both pre-and post-total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay samples, using an analytical method that was the precursor to EPA Draft Method 1633. As in other studies, 5:3FTCA was the dominant PFAS in the leachate, suggesting that carpets, textiles, and food packaging were the main sources of PFAS. Total PFAS concentrations (Σ32PFAS) ranged from 61 to 172,976 ng/L and 580-36,122 ng/L in pre-TOP and post-TOP samples, respectively, suggesting that little or no uncharacterized precursors remained in landfill leachate. Furthermore, due to chain-shortening reactions, the TOP assay often resulted in a loss of overall PFAS mass. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) analysis of the combined pre- and post-TOP samples produced five factors that represent sources and processes. Factor 1 consisted primarily of 5:3FTCA (intermediate of 6:2 fluorotelomer degradation and characteristic of landfill leachate), while factor 2 was dominated by PFBS (degradant of C-4 sulfonamide chemistry) and, to a lesser extent, by several PFCAs and 5:3FTCA. Factor 3 consisted primarily of both short-chain PFCAs (end-products of 6:2 fluorotelomer degradation) and PFHxS (derived from C-6 sulfonamide chemistry), while the main component of factor 4 was PFOS (dominant in many environmental media but minor in landfill leachate, perhaps reflecting a production shift from longer to shorter chain PFAS). Factor 5, highly loaded with PFCAs, was dominant in post-TOP samples and therefore represented the oxidation of precursors. Overall, PMF analysis suggests that the TOP assay approximates some redox processes which occur in landfills, including chain-shortening reactions which yield biodegradable products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staci L Capozzi
- Paul H. O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Amy L Leang
- Washington State Department of Ecology, Shoreline, WA, USA; University of Washington, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lisa A Rodenburg
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers University, 14 College Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
| | | | | | - Cole H Carter
- Washington State Department of Ecology, Spokane, WA, USA
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55
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Lv L, Liu B, Zhang B, Yu Y, Gao L, Ding L. A systematic review on distribution, sources and sorption of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in soil and their plant uptake. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116156. [PMID: 37196690 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are ubiquitous in environment, which have attracted increasing concerns in recent years. This study collected the data on PFAAs concentrations in 1042 soil samples from 15 countries and comprehensively reviewed the spatial distribution, sources, sorption mechanisms of PFAAs in soil and their plant uptake. PFAAs are widely detected in soils from many countries worldwide and their distribution is related to the emission of the fluorine-containing organic industry. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are found to be the predominant PFAAs in soil. Industrial emission is the main source of PFAAs contributing 49.9% of the total concentrations of PFAAs (Ʃ PFAAs) in soil, followed by activated sludge treated by wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) (19.9%) and irrigation of effluents from WWTPs, usage of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFFs) and leaching of leachate from landfill (30.2%). The adsorption of PFAAs by soil is mainly influenced by soil pH, ionic strength, soil organic matter and minerals. The concentrations of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) in soil are negatively correlated with the length of carbon chain, log Kow, and log Koc. The carbon chain lengths of PFAAs are negatively correlated with the root-soil concentration factors (RCFs) and shoot-soil concentration factors (SCFs). The uptake of PFAAs by plant is influenced by physicochemical properties of PFAAs, plant physiology and soil environment. Further studies should be conducted to make up the inadequacy of existing knowledge on the behavior and fate of PFAAs in soil-plant system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyang Lv
- College of Chemistry, Changchun Normal University, Changchun, 130032, China
| | - Baolin Liu
- College of Chemistry, Changchun Normal University, Changchun, 130032, China.
| | - Bimi Zhang
- Food and Drug Engineering Institute, Jilin Province Economic Management Cadre College, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Yong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
| | - Lei Gao
- College of Chemistry, Changchun Normal University, Changchun, 130032, China
| | - Lingjie Ding
- College of Chemistry, Changchun Normal University, Changchun, 130032, China
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56
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Rehnstam S, Czeschka MB, Ahrens L. Suspect screening and total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay as tools for characterization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS)-contaminated groundwater and treated landfill leachate. CHEMOSPHERE 2023:138925. [PMID: 37187375 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Landfill facilities are a major source of release of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to the surrounding environment. In this study, landfill leachate treated in a conventional wastewater treatment plant and PFAS-contaminated groundwater were subjected to suspect screening analysis and semi-quantification using total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay and liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). TOP assays yielded expected results for legacy PFAS and their precursors, but showed no discernible evidence of degradation of perfluoroethylcyclohexane sulfonic acid. TOP assays also produced significant evidence of presence of precursors in both treated landfill leachate and groundwater, but the majority of precursors had probably degraded into legacy PFAS after many years in the landfill. Suspect screening identified a total of 28 PF AS, of which six were not included in the targeted method and were identified with confidence level (CL) ≥3. Semi-quantification of these six compounds showed very low concentrations, indicating that they are not as great a concern as the target PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svante Rehnstam
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Sweden.
| | - Mai-Britt Czeschka
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Sweden
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Sweden
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57
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Grgas D, Petrina A, Štefanac T, Bešlo D, Landeka Dragičević T. A Review: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances-Biological Degradation. TOXICS 2023; 11:toxics11050446. [PMID: 37235260 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11050446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), highly stable synthetic organic compounds with multiple carbon-fluorine bonds, are emerging as environmental contaminants, toxic, bioaccumulative, and environmentally persistent. PFASs are strongly resistant to biological and chemical degradation, and therefore PFASs present a challenge to researchers and scientists for a better understanding and application of remediation methods and biodegradation of PFASs and have become subject to strict government regulations. The review summarizes the recent knowledge of bacterial and fungal degradation of PFASs, as well as the enzymes involved in the processes of transformation/degradation of PFASs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dijana Grgas
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Petrina
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tea Štefanac
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Drago Bešlo
- Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Tibela Landeka Dragičević
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Padhye LP, Srivastava P, Jasemizad T, Bolan S, Hou D, Shaheen SM, Rinklebe J, O'Connor D, Lamb D, Wang H, Siddique KHM, Bolan N. Contaminant containment for sustainable remediation of persistent contaminants in soil and groundwater. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 455:131575. [PMID: 37172380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Contaminant containment measures are often necessary to prevent or minimize offsite movement of contaminated materials for disposal or other purposes when they can be buried or left in place due to extensive subsurface contamination. These measures can include physical, chemical, and biological technologies such as impermeable and permeable barriers, stabilization and solidification, and phytostabilization. Contaminant containment is advantageous because it can stop contaminant plumes from migrating further and allow for pollutant reduction at sites where the source is inaccessible or cannot be removed. Moreover, unlike other options, contaminant containment measures do not require the excavation of contaminated substrates. However, contaminant containment measures require regular inspections to monitor for contaminant mobilization and migration. This review critically evaluates the sources of persistent contaminants, the different approaches to contaminant remediation, and the various physical-chemical-biological processes of contaminant containment. Additionally, the review provides case studies of contaminant containment operations under real or simulated field conditions. In summary, contaminant containment measures are essential for preventing further contamination and reducing risks to public health and the environment. While periodic monitoring is necessary, the benefits of contaminant containment make it a valuable remediation option when other methods are not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lokesh P Padhye
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Prashant Srivastava
- CSIRO, The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Environment Business Unit, Waite Campus, Urrbrae, South Australia 5064, Australia
| | - Tahereh Jasemizad
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Shiv Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Sabry M Shaheen
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water, and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil, and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285 Wuppertal, Germany; King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Meteorology, Environment, and Arid Land Agriculture, Department of Arid Land Agriculture, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; University of Kafrelsheikh, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil and Water Sciences, 33516 Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water, and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil, and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - David O'Connor
- School of Real Estate and Land Management, Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 6JS, United Kingdom
| | - Dane Lamb
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Hailong Wang
- Biochar Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Kadambot H M Siddique
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
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Murray CC, Safulko A, Vatankhah H, Liu CJ, Tajdini B, Marshall RE, Bellona C. PFAS adsorbent selection: The role of adsorbent use rate, water quality, and cost. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 454:131481. [PMID: 37146339 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contamination in aqueous matrices has intensified the search for PFAS adsorbents with elevated capacity, selectivity, and cost effectiveness. A novel surface modified organoclay (SMC) adsorbent was evaluated for PFAS removal performance in parallel with granular activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange resin (IX) for the treatment of five distinct PFAS impaired waters including groundwater, landfill leachate, membrane concentrate and wastewater effluent. Rapid small scale column tests (RSSCTs) and breakthrough modeling were coupled to provide insight on adsorbent performance and cost for multiple PFAS and water types. IX exhibited the best performance with respect to adsorbent use rates in treatment of all tested waters. IX was nearly four times more effective than GAC and two times more effective than SMC in the treatment of PFOA from water types excluding groundwater. Employed modeling strengthened the comparison of adsorbent performance and water quality to infer adsorption feasibility. Further, evaluation of adsorption was extended beyond PFAS breakthrough with the inclusion of unit adsorbent cost as a decision metric influencing adsorbent selection. An analysis of levelized media cost indicated treatment of landfill leachate and membrane concentrate was at least three times more expensive than groundwaters or wastewaters evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conner C Murray
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401, USA; Hazen and Sawyer, Lakewood, CO 80228, USA
| | - Andrew Safulko
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401, USA; Brown and Caldwell, Lakewood, CO 80401, USA
| | - Hooman Vatankhah
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Charlie J Liu
- Kennedy Jenks Consultants, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA
| | - Bahareh Tajdini
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | | | - Christopher Bellona
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401, USA.
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Eeso K, Gallan R, Goukeh MN, Tate K, Raja RKB, Popovic Z, Abichou T, Chen H, Locke BR, Tang Y. Degradation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in landfill leachate by a thin-water-film nonthermal plasma reactor. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 161:104-115. [PMID: 36878039 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are present in landfill leachate, posing potential challenges to leachate disposal and treatment. This work represents the first study of a thin-water-film nonthermal plasma reactor for PFAS degradation in landfill leachate. Of the 30 PFAS measured in three raw leachates, 21 were above the detection limits. The removal percentage depended on the category of PFAS. For example, perfluorooctanoic acid PFOA (C8) had the highest removal percentage (77% as an average of the three leachates) of the perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) category. The removal percentage decreased when the carbon number increased from 8 to 11 and decreased from 8 to 4. The effects of various landfill leachate components, including sodium chloride, acetate, humic acids, pH, and surfactants, had no or minor impacts (<30%) on PFOA mineralization in synthetic samples. This might be explained by the plasma-generation and PFAS-degradation mainly occurring at the gas/liquid interface. Shorter-chain PFCAs were produced as intermediates of PFOA degradation, and shorter-chain PFCAs and perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs) were produced as intermediates of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). The concentrations of the intermediates decreased with decreasing carbon number, suggesting a stepwise removal of difluoromethylene (CF2) in the degradation pathway. Potential PFAS species in the raw and treated leachates were identified at the molecular level through non-targeted Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). The intermediates did not show accurate toxicity per Microtox bioassay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karam Eeso
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Rachel Gallan
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Mojtaba Nouri Goukeh
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Kerry Tate
- Chemistry Program, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 N Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399, United States
| | - Radha Krishna Bulusu Raja
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Zeljka Popovic
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University, 1800 East Paul Dirac Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Tarek Abichou
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Huan Chen
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University, 1800 East Paul Dirac Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Bruce R Locke
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States
| | - Youneng Tang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, United States.
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Lott DJ, Robey NM, Fonseca R, Bowden JA, Townsend TG. Behavior of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Pilot-Scale vertical flow constructed wetlands treating landfill leachate. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 161:187-192. [PMID: 36893712 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the behavior of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in multiple pilot-scale vertical flow constructed wetlands (VFCW) treating landfill leachate. Eight pilot-scale VFCW columns planted with Typha latifolia or Scirpus Californicus were fed untreated municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill leachate that was diluted with potable water at a 1:10 ratio (1 part leachate to 10 parts total) at a fixed daily hydraulic loading rate of 0.525 m d-1. Ninety-two PFAS were examined and 18 PFAS were detected at quantifiable concentrations (7 precursor species and 11 terminal species). The average concentration of Σ92 PFAS in the influent was 3,100 ng L-1, which corresponded with minimal reduction in the effluents from the four VFCW (decreases ranged from 1% to 12% on average for Σ18 PFAS); however, precursors 6:3 FTCA, 7:3 FTCA, N-MeFOSAA, and N-EtFOSAA concentrations decreased significantly in the VFCW effluents, and significant decreases in the concentrations of these PFAA-precursors were concurrent with a significant increase in concentrations of five PFAAs (PFBA, PFNA, PFBS, PFOS, and PFOSI). This trend indicates that from a regulatory perspective, standalone VFCWs are likely to produce an apparent PFAS increase, which may also be true for many other leachate treatment processes incorporating aerobic biological treatment. Additional treatment to address PFAS should be integrated prior to the use of any system, including VFCWs, for the treatment of constituents of concern in MSW landfill leachate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dreyton J Lott
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, United States
| | - Nicole M Robey
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, United States
| | - Rachel Fonseca
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, United States; College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, P. O. Box 116450, Gainesville, FL 32611-6450, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, United States.
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62
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Smallwood TJ, Robey NM, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Solo-Gabriele HM, Townsend TG. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) distribution in landfill gas collection systems: leachate and gas condensate partitioning. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130926. [PMID: 36764258 PMCID: PMC10641829 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
While per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been reported extensively in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill leachate,they have rarely been quantified in landfill gas or in discrete landfill liquids such as landfill gas condensate (LGC), and the potential for PFAS to partition to the condensate has not been reported. LGC and leachate collected from within gas wells known as gas well pump-out (GWP) from three MSW landfills underwent physical-chemical characterization and PFAS analysis to improve understanding of the conditions under which these liquids form and to illuminate PFAS behavior within landfills. LGC was observed to be clear liquid containing ammonia and alkalinity while GWP strongly resembled leachate - dark in color, high in chloride and ammonia. Notably, arsenic and antimony were found in concentrations exceeding regulatory thresholds by over two orders of magnitude in many LGC samples. LGC contained a lower average concentration of ΣPFAS (19,000 ng L) compared to GWP (56,000 ng L); however, LGC contained more diversity of PFAS, with 53 quantified compared to 44 in GWP. LGC contained proportionally more precursor PFAS than GWP, including more semi-volatile PFAS which are rarely measured in water matrices, such as fluorotelomer alcohols and perfluoroalkane sulfonamido ethanols. This study provides the first detailed comparison of these matrices to inform timely leachate management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Smallwood
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Nicole M Robey
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Yalan Liu
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- University of Miami, Department of Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
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63
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Schaefer CE, Hooper JL, Strom LE, Abusallout I, Dickenson ERV, Thompson KA, Mohan GR, Drennan D, Wu K, Guelfo JL. Occurrence of quantifiable and semi-quantifiable poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances in united states wastewater treatment plants. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 233:119724. [PMID: 36801573 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Both quantifiable and semi-quantifiable poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were evaluated in the influent, effluent, and biosolids of 38 wastewater treatment plants. PFAS were detected in all streams at all facilities. For the means of the sums of detected, quantifiable PFAS concentrations were 98 ± 28 ng/L, 80 ± 24 ng/L, and 160,000 ± 46,000 ng/kg (dry weight basis) in the influent, effluent, and biosolids (respectively). In the aqueous influent and effluent streams this quantifiable PFAS mass was typically associated with perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs). In contrast, quantifiable PFAS in the biosolids were primarily polyfluoroalkyl substances that potentially serve as precursors to the more recalcitrant PFAAs. Results of the total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay on select influent and effluent samples showed that semi-quantified (or, unidentified) precursors accounted for a substantial portion (21 to 88%) of the fluorine mass compared to that associated with quantified PFAS, and that this fluorine precursor mass was not appreciably transformed to perfluoroalkyl acids within the WWTPs, as influent and effluent precursor concentrations via the TOP assay were statistically identical. Evaluation of semi-quantified PFAS, consistent with results of the TOP assay, showed the presence of several classes of precursors in the influent, effluent, and biosolids; perfluorophosphonic acids (PFPAs) and fluorotelomer phosphate diesters (di-PAPs) occurred in 100 and 92% of biosolid samples, respectively. Analysis of mass flows showed that, for both quantified (on a fluorine mass basis) and semi-quantified PFAS, the majority of PFAS exited WWTPs through the aqueous effluent compared to the biosolids stream. Overall, these results highlight the importance of semi-quantified PFAS precursors in WWTPs, and the need to further understand the impacts of their ultimate fate in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laurel E Strom
- CDM Smith, 14432 SE Eastgate Way Suite 100, Bellevue, WA 98007, USA
| | | | - Eric R V Dickenson
- Water Quality Research and Development, Southern Nevada Water Authority, 1299 Burkholder Blvd., Henderson, NV, 89015, USA
| | - Kyle A Thompson
- Water Quality Research and Development, Southern Nevada Water Authority, 1299 Burkholder Blvd., Henderson, NV, 89015, USA; Carollo Engineers, 8911N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78759, USA
| | - Gayathri Ram Mohan
- Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources, Lawrenceville, GA 30045, USA
| | - Dina Drennan
- CDM Smith, 14432 SE Eastgate Way Suite 100, Bellevue, WA 98007, USA
| | - Ke Wu
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Construction Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Jennifer L Guelfo
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Construction Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
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64
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Ateia M, Chiang D, Cashman M, Acheson C. Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) Assay-Best Practices, Capabilities and Limitations for PFAS Site Investigation and Remediation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2023; 10:292-301. [PMID: 37313434 PMCID: PMC10259459 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.3c00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The comprehensive characterization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) is necessary for the effective assessment and management of risk at contaminated sites. While current analytical methods are capable of quantitatively measuring a number of specific PFASs, they do not provide a complete picture of the thousands of PFASs that are utilized in commercial products and potentially released into the environment. These unmeasured PFASs include many PFAS precursors, which may be converted into related PFAS chemicals through oxidation. The total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay offers a means of bridging this gap by oxidizing unknown PFAS precursors and intermediates and converting them into stable PFASs with established analytical standards. The application of the TOP assay to samples from PFAS-contaminated sites has generated several new insights, but it has also presented various technical challenges for laboratories. Despite the increased number of literature studies that include the TOP assay, there is a critical and growing gap in the application of this method beyond researchers in academia. This article outlines the benefits and challenges of using the TOP assay with aqueous samples for site assessments and suggests ways to address some of its limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ateia
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Environmental Solutions & Emergency Response, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268, United States; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Dora Chiang
- WSP USA, Atlanta, Georgia 30326, United States
| | - Michaela Cashman
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, Narraganset, Rhode Island 02882, United States
| | - Carolyn Acheson
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Environmental Solutions & Emergency Response, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268, United States
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65
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Chen Y, Zhang H, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Evaluation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in leachate, gas condensate, stormwater and groundwater at landfills. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 318:137903. [PMID: 36669537 PMCID: PMC10536789 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.137903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), found in many consumer products, are commonly disposed of in landfills at the end of their service lives. To identify landfill liquids that should be prioritized for treatment, this study aimed to evaluate PFAS levels in different aqueous samples from landfills and identify relationships between PFAS and landfill characteristics. Twenty-six PFAS including 11 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), 7 perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs), and 8 perfluoroalkyl acid precursors (PFAA-precursors) were measured in municipal solid waste (MSW) leachate, construction and demolition debris (CDD) leachate, municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash leachate, gas condensate, stormwater, and groundwater from landfills. Based on the median, results show that PFAS levels in MSW leachate were the highest (10,000 ng L-1), CDD leachate were intermediate (6200 ng L-1), and MSWI ash leachate were the lowest (1300 ng L-1) among the leachates evaluated. PFAS levels in gas condensate (7000 ng L-1) were similar to MSW leachate. PFAS in stormwater and groundwater were low (medians were less than 500 ng L-1). Dominant subgroups included PFCAs and PFAA-precursors in all leachates. PFSAs were also found in CDD leachate, PFAA-precursors in gas condensate, and PFCAs in stormwater and groundwater. Landfill characteristics significantly correlated with ∑26PFAS included waste proportions (percentage of MSWI ash in landfill, |rs| = 0.22), operational status (active or not, |rs| = 0.27) and rainfall (30-d cumulative rainfall, |rs| = 0.39). The results from this study can be used to prioritize which landfills and which reservoir of liquids (and corresponding subgroup of PFAS) to target for PFAS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States
| | - Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH 45268, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States.
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66
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Li J, Xi B, Zhu G, Yuan Y, Liu W, Gong Y, Tan W. A critical review of the occurrence, fate and treatment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in landfills. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 218:114980. [PMID: 36460077 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this critical review is i) to summarize the occurrence of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in landfills; ii) to outline the environmental fate and transport of PFASs in landfills; iii) to compare the treatment technologies of PFASs in landfill leachate and remediation methods of PFASs in surrounding groundwater; iv) to identify the research gaps and suggest future research directions. In recent years, PFASs have been detected in landfills around the world, among which Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) especially Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) are mostly studied due to their long-term stability. Short-chain PFASs (<8 carbons) are more common than long-chain PFASs (≧8 carbons) in landfill leachate. PFASs in landfill leachate are eventually transported to the surrounding groundwater, surface water and soil. Some PFASs evaporate from landfills to the ambient air. To avoid the environmental and health risks of PFASs in landfills, new technologies and combined use of existing technologies have been implemented to treat PFASs in landfill leachate. Integrated remediation methods are applied to control the diffusion of PFASs in groundwater surrounding landfills. In future, the mechanisms of PFAAs precursors degradation, the correlation among PFASs in different environmental media around landfills, as well as the environmental behavior and toxic effect of combined pollutants together with PFASs in landfill leachate and surrounding groundwater should be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Beidou Xi
- School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Ganghui Zhu
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Weijiang Liu
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Yi Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Wenbing Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
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67
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Liu X, Huang X, Wei X, Zhi Y, Qian S, Li W, Yue D, Wang X. Occurrence and removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in leachates from incineration plants: A full-scale study. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 313:137456. [PMID: 36470352 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Municipal solid wastes (MSWs) contain diverse per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and these substances may leach into leachates, resulting in potential threats to the environment and human health. In this study, leachates from incineration plants with on-site treatment systems were measured for 17 PFAS species, including 13 perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) and 4 perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs). PFAS were detected in all of the raw leachates and finished effluents in concentrations ranging from 7228 to 16,565 ng L-1 and 43 to 184 ng L-1, respectively, with a greater contribution from the short-chain PFAS and PFCAs. The results showed that the existing combined processes (biological treatment and membrane filtration) were effective in decreasing PFAS in the aqueous phase with removal efficiencies over 95%. In addition, correlation analysis suggested that physical entrapment, not biodegradation, was the main means of PFAS reduction in the treatment system. These results filled a gap in the understanding of PFAS occurrence and removal in leachates from incineration plants during the full-scale treatment processes, and demonstrated those leachates were previously under-explored sources of PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xingyao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wei
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yue Zhi
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Shenhua Qian
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China; Department of Ecological Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China; Department of Ecological Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Dongbei Yue
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
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68
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Xing Y, Li Q, Chen X, Huang B, Ji L, Zhang Q, Fu X, Li T, Wang J. PFASs in Soil: How They Threaten Human Health through Multiple Pathways and Whether They Are Receiving Adequate Concern. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:1259-1275. [PMID: 36622935 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c06283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been mass-produced and widely applied in consumer and industrial products, resulting in their widespread presence in the environment. Features such as environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and high toxicity even at low doses have made PFASs an increasing concern. This brief review focuses on soil PFASs, especially the effect of soil PFASs on other environmental media and their potential threats to human health through daily diet. Specifically, soil PFASs contamination caused by different pathways was first investigated. Soil pollution from application of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) is generally more severe than that from fluorochemical manufacturing plants, followed by biosolid land use, landfill, and irrigation. Factors, such as carbon chain length of PFASs, wastewater treatment technology, geographical conditions, and regional development level, are related to soil PFASs' pollution. Then, the migration, bioaccumulation, and toxicity characteristics of soil PFASs were analyzed. Short-chain PFASs have higher solubility, mobility, and bioavailability, while long-chain PFASs have higher bioaccumulation potential and are more toxic to organisms. Factors such as soil texture, solution chemistry conditions, enzymes, and fertilization conditions also influence the environmental behavior of PFASs. The risk of human exposure to PFASs through agricultural and animal products is difficult to control and varies depending on living region, age, eating habits, lifestyle, ethnicity, etc. Soil PFASs threaten drinking water safety, affect soil function, and enter food webs, threatening human health. Knowledge gaps and perspectives in these research fields are also included in current work to assist future research to effectively investigate and understand the environmental risks of soil PFASs, thereby reducing human exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingna Xing
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Ecology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China
| | - Qi Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Ecology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Lei Ji
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Ecology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Ecology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China
| | - Xiaowen Fu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Ecology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China
| | - Tianyuan Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Ecology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China
| | - Jianing Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Ecology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China
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69
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Wang Y, Ji Y, Tishchenko V, Huang Q. Removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water by foam fractionation. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:137004. [PMID: 36374630 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Treatment of large volumes of waters contaminated by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) remains a challenge. This work presented a systematic study on PFAS removal by foam fractionation (FF). Experiments were conducted on both laboratory-spiked and environmental water samples containing PFASs. It is found that higher air flow, greater ionic strength, and addition of thickener boosted PFAS removal in the defoamed bottom solutions and intensified enrichment in the collected foam. FF treatments of a landfill leachate, a groundwater contaminated by aqueous film-forming foams, and a wastewater treatment plant effluent sample were evaluated. The removal reached above 70% for most monitored PFASs, except the ones of short alkyl chains. PFAS concentrations in the final collected foams were up to over 30 × than that in the original samples. Analysis using high-resolution mass spectrometry revealed enrichment of non-target PFASs by FF. The results of this study demonstrate great effectiveness of FF in removing most PFASs from waters, producing low-volume, highly concentrated solutions of PFASs in all tested environmental samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Wang
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA, 30223, USA
| | - Yuqing Ji
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA, 30223, USA
| | - Viktor Tishchenko
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA, 30223, USA
| | - Qingguo Huang
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA, 30223, USA.
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70
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Zhang M, Zhao X, Zhao D, Soong TY, Tian S. Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Landfills: Occurrence, Transformation and Treatment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 155:162-178. [PMID: 36379166 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Landfills have served as the final repository for > 50 % municipal solid wastes in the United States. Because of their widespread uses and persistence in the environment, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) (>4000 on the global market) are ubiquitously present in everyday consumer, commercial and industrial products, and have been widely detected in both closed (tens ng/L) and active (thousands to ten thousands ng/L) landfills due to disposal of PFAS-containing materials. Along with the decomposition of wastes in-place, PFAS can be transformed and released from the wastes into leachate and landfill gas. Consequently, it is critical to understand the occurrence and transformation of PFAS in landfills and the effectiveness of landfills, as a disposal alternative, for long-term containment of PFAS. This article presents a state-of-the-art review on the occurrence and transformation of PFAS in landfills, and possible effect of PFAS on the integrity of modern liner systems. Based on the data published from 10 countries (250 + landfills), C4-C7 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids were found predominant in the untreated landfill leachate and neutral PFAS, primarily fluorotelomer alcohols, in landfill air. The effectiveness and limitations of the conventional leachate treatment technologies and emerging technologies were also evaluated to address PFAS released into the leachate. Among conventional technologies, reverse osmosis (RO) may achieve a high removal efficiency of 90-100 % based on full-scale data, which, however, is vulnerable to the organic fouling and requires additional disposal of the concentrate. Implications of these knowledge on PFAS management at landfills are discussed and major knowledge gaps are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Zhang
- CTI and Associates, Inc., 34705 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 230, Farmington Hills, MI 48331, USA.
| | - Xianda Zhao
- CTI and Associates, Inc., 34705 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 230, Farmington Hills, MI 48331, USA
| | - Dongye Zhao
- Environmental Engineering Program, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA; Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, USA.
| | - Te-Yang Soong
- CTI and Associates, Inc., 34705 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 230, Farmington Hills, MI 48331, USA
| | - Shuting Tian
- Environmental Engineering Program, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA; Institute of Environmental Science, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024, China
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71
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Karbassiyazdi E, Kasula M, Modak S, Pala J, Kalantari M, Altaee A, Esfahani MR, Razmjou A. A juxtaposed review on adsorptive removal of PFAS by metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with carbon-based materials, ion exchange resins, and polymer adsorbents. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:136933. [PMID: 36280122 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The removal of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the aquatic environment is a universal concern due to the adverse effects of these substances on both the environment and public health. Different adsorbents, including carbon-based materials, ion exchange resins, biomaterials, and polymers, have been used for the removal of short-chain (C < 6) and long-chain (C > 7) PFAS from water with varying performance. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), as a new generation of adsorbents, have also been recently used to remove PFAS from water. MOFs provide unique properties such as significantly enhanced surface area, structural tunability, and improved selectivity compared to conventional adsorbents. However, due to various types of MOFs, their complex chemistry and morphology, different PFAS compounds, lack of standard adsorption test, and different testing conditions, there are inconclusive and contradictory findings in the literature. Therefore, this review aims to provide critical analysis of the performance of different types of MOFs in the removal of long-chain (C > 7), short-chain (C < 6), and ultra-short-chain (C < 3) PFAS and comprehensively study the efficiency of MOFs for PFAS removal in comparison with other adsorbents. In addition, the adsorption mechanisms and kinetics of PFAS components on different MOFs, including Materials of Institute Lavoisier (MIL), Universiteit of Oslo (UiO), Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), and other hybrid types of MOF were discussed. The study also discussed the effect of environmental factors such as pH and ionic strength on the adsorption of PFAS on MOFs. In addition to the adsorption process, the reusability and regeneration of MOFs in the PFAS removal process are discussed. Finally, challenges and future outlooks of the utility of MOFs for PFAS removal were discussed to inspire future critical research efforts in removing PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elika Karbassiyazdi
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Medha Kasula
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Alabama, Alabama, USA
| | - Sweta Modak
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Alabama, Alabama, USA
| | - Jasneet Pala
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Alabama, Alabama, USA
| | - Mohammad Kalantari
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Ali Altaee
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Milad Rabbani Esfahani
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Alabama, Alabama, USA.
| | - Amir Razmjou
- Mineral Recovery Research Center (MRRC), School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Perth, WA, 6027, Australia; UNESCO Centre for Membrane Science and Technology, School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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72
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Li J, Wang L, Zhang X, Liu P, Deji Z, Xing Y, Zhou Y, Lin X, Huang Z. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposure and its influence on the intestinal barrier: An overview on the advances. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 852:158362. [PMID: 36055502 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of artificially synthetic organic compounds that are hardly degraded in the natural environment. PFAS have been widely used for many decades, and the persistence and potential toxicity of PFAS are an emerging concern in the world. PFAS exposed via diet can be readily absorbed by the intestine and enter the circulatory system or accumulate directly at intestinal sites, which could interact with the intestine and cause the destruction of intestinal barrier. This review summarizes current relationships between PFAS exposure and intestinal barrier damage with a focus on more recent toxicological studies. Exposure to PFAS could cause inflammation in the gut, destruction of the gut epithelium and tight junction structure, reduction of the mucus layer, and induction of the toxicity of immune cells. PFAS accumulation could also induce microbial disorders and metabolic products changes. In addition, there are limited studies currently, and most available studies converge on the health risk of PFAS exposure for human intestinal disease. Therefore, more efforts are deserved to further understand potential associations between PFAS exposure and intestinal dysfunction and enable better assessment of exposomic toxicology and health risks for humans in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoyang Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Agriculture, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, PR China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Zhuoma Deji
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Yudong Xing
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Xia Lin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Zhenzhen Huang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China.
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73
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Minet L, Wang Z, Shalin A, Bruton TA, Blum A, Peaslee GF, Schwartz-Narbonne H, Venier M, Whitehead H, Wu Y, Diamond ML. Use and release of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in consumer food packaging in U.S. and Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2022; 24:2032-2042. [PMID: 36218049 DOI: 10.1039/d2em00166g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Numerous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) occur in consumer food packaging due to intentional and unintentional addition, despite increasing concern about their health and environmental hazards. We present a substance flow analysis framework to assess the flows of PFASs contained in plant fiber-based and plastic food packaging to the waste stream and environment. Each year between 2018 and 2020, an estimated 9000 (range 1100-25 000) and 940 (range 120-2600) tonnes per year of polymeric PFASs were used in 2% of food packaging in the U.S. and Canada, respectively. At least 11 tonnes per year of non-polymeric PFASs also moved through the food packaging life cycle. Approximately 6100 (range 690-13 000) and 700 (range 70-1600) tonnes per year of these PFASs were landfilled or entered composting facilities in the U.S. and Canada, respectively, with the potential to contaminate the environment. The results suggest that minimal food packaging contains intentionally added PFASs which, nonetheless, has the potential to contaminate the entire waste stream. Further, this indicates that PFASs are not needed for most food packaging. These results serve as a benchmark to judge the effectiveness of future industry and government initiatives to limit PFAS use in food packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Minet
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Victoria, Canada
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada.
| | - Zhanyun Wang
- Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Technology and Society Laboratory, Switzerland
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH-Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anna Shalin
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada.
| | | | - Arlene Blum
- Green Science Policy Institute, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | | | | | - Marta Venier
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, USA
| | | | - Yan Wu
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, USA
| | - Miriam L Diamond
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada.
- School of the Environment, University of Toronto, Canada
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74
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Sörengård M, Travar I, Kleja D, Ahrens L. Fly ash-based waste for ex-situ landfill stabilization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS)-contaminated soil. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL ADVANCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceja.2022.100396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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75
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Li J, Pinkard BR, Wang S, Novosselov IV. Review: Hydrothermal treatment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:135888. [PMID: 35931254 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PER: and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a concerning and unique class of environmentally persistent contaminants with biotoxic effects. Decades of PFAS discharge into water and soil resulted in PFAS bioaccumulation in plants, animals, and humans. PFAS are very stable, and their treatment has become a global environmental challenge. Significant efforts have been made to achieve efficient and complete PFAS mineralization using existing and emerging technologies. Hydrothermal treatments in subcritical and supercritical water have emerged as promising end-of-life PFAS destruction technologies, attracting the attention of scholars, industry, and key stakeholders. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art research on the behavior of PFAS, PFAS precursors, PFAS alternatives, and PFAS-containing waste in hydrothermal processes, including the destruction and defluorination efficiency, the proposed reaction mechanisms, and the environmental impact of these treatments. Scientific literature shows that >99% degradation and >60% defluorination of PFAS can be achieved through subcritical and supercritical water processing. The limitations of current research are evaluated, special considerations are given to the challenges of technology maturation and scale-up from laboratory studies to large-scale industrial application, and potential future technological developments are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianna Li
- University of Washington, Mechanical Engineering Department, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Key Laboratory of Thermo-Fluid Science and Engineering of MOE, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Brian R Pinkard
- University of Washington, Mechanical Engineering Department, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Aquagga, Inc., Tacoma, WA 98421, USA
| | - Shuzhong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Thermo-Fluid Science and Engineering of MOE, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Igor V Novosselov
- University of Washington, Mechanical Engineering Department, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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76
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Chen Y, Zhang H, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Concentrations of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances before and after full-scale landfill leachate treatment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 153:110-120. [PMID: 36084369 PMCID: PMC10463282 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Many consumer and industrial products, industrial wastes and dewatered sludge from municipal wastewater treatment plants containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are disposed of in landfills at the end of their usage, with PFAS in these products leached into landfill leachates. On-site leachate treatment is one possible method to reduce PFAS in leachates. Many landfills are equipped with on-site leachate treatment systems, but few full-scale facilities have been systematically evaluated for PFAS concentration changes. The objective of this study was to evaluate a cross-section of full-scale on-site landfill treatment systems to measure changes in PFAS concentrations. Leachate samples were collected before and after treatment from 15 facilities and were evaluated for 26 PFAS, including 11 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), 7 perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs), and 8 perfluoroalkyl acid precursors (PFAA-precursors). Transformation of precursors was evaluated by the total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay. Results showed no obvious reductions in total measured PFAS (∑26PFAS) for on-site treatment systems including ponds, aeration tanks, powdered activated carbon (PAC), and sand filtration. Among evaluated on-site treatment systems, only systems fitted with reverse osmosis (RO) showed significant reductions (98-99 %) of ∑26PFAS in the permeate. Results from the TOP assay showed that untargeted PFAA-precursors converted into targeted short-chain PFCAs increasing ∑26PFAS in oxidized samples by 30 %, on average. Overall, results of this study confirm the efficacy of RO systems and suggest the presence of additional precursors beyond those measured in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH 45268, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States.
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77
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Liu T, Hu LX, Han Y, Dong LL, Wang YQ, Zhao JH, Liu YS, Zhao JL, Ying GG. Non-target and target screening of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in landfill leachate and impact on groundwater in Guangzhou, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 844:157021. [PMID: 35777559 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Landfills are the main destination of many urban wastes containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and PFAS may leach out from the waste and contaminate the surrounding groundwater. Here we investigated the occurrence of PFAS in leachate and surrounding groundwater from three landfills in Guangzhou, China by using a combined target and non-target approach. Non-target screening showed that a total of 651 PFAS with 96 classes were identified, including 17 legacy PFAS and 637 emerging PFAS. The quantitative target analysis of some PFAS revealed that the average removal rate of PFAS from the raw leachates were ranged between 62 % and 99 %. Statistical analysis and source analysis suggested that landfill leachate was a major source of PFAS in the groundwater within the landfills and downstream sites. The results from the combined target and non-target analyses demonstrated that PFAS in landfills could leach into the surrounding groundwater, and may affect the sustainable use of groundwater as a source of drinking water and pose a potential risk to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Li-Xin Hu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yu Han
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Liang-Li Dong
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yu-Qing Wang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jia-Hui Zhao
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - You-Sheng Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jian-Liang Zhao
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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78
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Huang X, Wei X, Liu H, Li W, Shi D, Qian S, Sun W, Yue D, Wang X. Occurrence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in municipal solid waste landfill leachates from western China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:69588-69598. [PMID: 35578077 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20754-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Landfill leachate has been documented as a significant source of trace organic pollutants, comprising an expansive family of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This study presents the findings on the distribution of 13 perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) and 4 perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs) in leachates from 6 municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills in western China. The total concentrations of 17 PFAS in sampled leachates ranged from 1805 to 43,310 ng/L, and 15 compounds were detected in all samples. The short-chain compounds perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS, mean mass fraction 23.1%) and perfluorobutyric acid (PFBA, mean mass fraction 20.6%) were dominant. There were higher PFAS concentrations in leachates from operating landfills (mean: 12,194 ng/L) compared to closed landfills (mean: 2747 ng/L), but there was no significant difference between young (< 10 years) and old landfills (> 10 years). Moderate to weak correlations were observed between PFAS concentrations and leachate properties, e.g., TN, NH4+-N, TOC, and pH. This is the first report on the distribution of PFAS in landfill leachates from western China. The results have identified landfill leachate as an underestimated source of PFAS in the environment and have contributed to a more comprehensive evaluation on PFAS presence across China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wei
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Huazu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
- Department of Ecological Sciences and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Dezhi Shi
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Shenhua Qian
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
- Department of Ecological Sciences and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Wenjie Sun
- Department of Atmospheric and Hydrologic Science, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN, 56301, USA
| | - Dongbei Yue
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China.
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79
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Lin H, Lao JY, Wang Q, Ruan Y, He Y, Lee PKH, Leung KMY, Lam PKS. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the atmosphere of waste management infrastructures: Uncovering secondary fluorotelomer alcohols, particle size distribution, and human inhalation exposure. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 167:107434. [PMID: 35914336 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been applied in numerous industrial and consumer products, the majority of which flow into waste management infrastructures (WMIs) at the end of their life cycles, but little is known about atmospheric releases of PFAS from these facilities. In this study, we addressed this key issue by investigating 49 PFAS, including 23 ionic and 26 neutral and precursor PFAS, in the potential sources (n = 4; within or adjacent to WMIs) and reference sites (n = 2; coastal and natural reserve sites) in urban and rural areas of Hong Kong, China. Duplicate samples of air and size-segregated particulate matter were collected for 48 h continuously using a 11-stage Micro-Orifice Uniform Deposit Impactor (MOUDI). In general, fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs) and perfluoroalkane sulfonamides were the predominant PFAS classes found across sampling sites. We also demonstrated the release of several less frequently observed semivolatile intermediate products (e.g., secondary FTOHs) during waste treatment. Except for perfluorooctane sulfonate, the size-segregated distributions of particulate PFAS exhibited heterogeneity across sampling sites, particularly in the WMIs, implying combined effects of sorption affinity and emission sources. A preliminary daily air emission estimation revealed that landfill was a relatively important source of PFAS relative to the wastewater treatment plant. A simplified International Commission on Radiological Protection model was used to estimate lung depositional fluxes, and the results showed that inhaled particulate PFAS were mainly deposited in the head airway while fine and ultrafine particles carried PFAS deeper into the lung alveoli. The cumulative daily inhalation dose of gaseous and particulate PFAS ranged from 81.9 to 265 pg/kg/d. In-depth research is required to understand the health effect of airborne PFAS on workers at WMIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiju Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jia-Yong Lao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuefei Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China.
| | - Yuhe He
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Patrick K H Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kenneth M Y Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Paul K S Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Office of the President, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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80
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Zhang H, Chen Y, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Do PFAS changes in landfill leachate treatment systems correlate with changes in physical chemical parameters? WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 151:49-59. [PMID: 35926281 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been found at relatively elevated concentrations in landfill leachates. Some landfill facilities treat physical-chemical parameters of their leachates using on-site leachate treatment systems before discharge. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether changes in physical-chemical parameters of leachate at on-site treatment systems (including bulk measurements, oxygen demanding components, and metals) were associated with concentration changes in PFAS. Leachates were evaluated at 15 on-site treatment facilities which included pond systems, aeration tanks, powdered activated carbon (PAC), sand filtration, reverse osmosis (RO) and combination treatment processes. Results show that most physical-chemical parameters and PFAS were significantly reduced in RO systems (over 90 %). For pond systems, statistically significant correlations (rs > 0.6, p < 0.05) were observed between ∑26PFAS changes and the changes in pH, alkalinity, ammonia, and some metals. Significant correlations were also found between ∑8PFAAs precursors changes and specific conductivity (SPC), pH, alkalinity, ammonia, and metals changes. For aeration tank systems, significant correlations (rs > 0.6, p < 0.05) were observed between ∑26PFAS changes and changes in total dissolved solids and zinc, and between the changes of ∑8PFAAs precursors and field pH. These correlations are believed to be associated with rainfall dilution and precipitation of calcium carbonate and other metals as leachate is introduced to the atmosphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States.
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81
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Viticoski RL, Wang D, Feltman MA, Mulabagal V, Rogers SR, Blersch DM, Hayworth JS. Spatial distribution and mass transport of Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in surface water: A statewide evaluation of PFAS occurrence and fate in Alabama. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 836:155524. [PMID: 35489494 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been previously detected near suspected sources in Alabama, but the overall extent of contamination across the state is unknown. This study evaluated the spatial distribution of 17 PFAS within the ten major river basins in Alabama and provided insights into their transport and fate through a mass flux analysis. Six PFAS were identified in 65 out of the 74 riverine samples, with mean ∑6PFAS levels of 35.2 ng L-1. The highest ∑6PFAS concentration of 237 ng L-1 was detected in the Coosa River, a transboundary river that receives discharges from multiple sources in Alabama and Georgia. PFAS distribution was not observed to be uniform across the state: while the Coosa, Alabama, and Chattahoochee rivers presented relatively high mean ∑6PFAS concentrations of 191, 100 and 28.8 ng L-1, respectively, PFAS were not detected in the Conecuh, Escatawpa, and Yellow rivers. Remaining river systems presented mean ∑6PFAS concentrations between 7.94 and 24.7 ng L-1. Although the short-chain perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA) was the most detected analyte (88%), perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS) was the substance with the highest individual concentration of 79.4 ng L-1. Consistent increases in the mass fluxes of PFAS were observed as the rivers flowed through Alabama, reaching up to 63.3 mg s-1, indicating the presence of numerous sources across the state. Most of the mass inputs would not have been captured if only aqueous concentrations were evaluated, since concentration is usually heavily impacted by environmental conditions. Results of this study demonstrate that mass flux is a simple and powerful complementary approach that can be used to broadly understand trends in the transport and fate of PFAS in large river systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger L Viticoski
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States
| | - Danyang Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States
| | - Meredith A Feltman
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States
| | - Vanisree Mulabagal
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States
| | - Stephanie R Rogers
- Department of Geosciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States
| | - David M Blersch
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States
| | - Joel S Hayworth
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States.
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82
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Tansel B. PFAS use in electronic products and exposure risks during handling and processing of e-waste: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 316:115291. [PMID: 35584593 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) have been and are used in electronic products due to their unique properties that improve product quality and performance. Ubiquities and persistence of some PFAS detected in environmental samples (water, soil, air) have attracted much attention and regulatory actions in recent years. This review provides an overview of PFAS use in electronic components; trends in quantities of e-waste generation; PFAS exposure pathways during e-waste handling and processing; reported PFAS in environmental samples and samples of serum, blood, and hair collected from people living near and working at e-waste processing sites. Processes used for manufacturing electronic components (e.g., embedded processes, additive manufacturing) make recycling or materials recovery from discarded electronic units and components very difficult and unfeasible. Exposure during numerous processing steps for materials recovery and scavenging at disposal sites can result in PFAS intake through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal routes. Chemical risk assessment approaches have been continuously evolving to consider chemical-specific dosimetric and mechanistic information. While the metabolic fate of PFAS is not well understood, some PFAS bioaccumulate and bind to proteins (but not to lipids) in biota and humans due to their surface-active characteristics and very low solubility in water and fat. It is difficult to associate the adverse health effects due to exposure to e-waste directly to PFAS as there are other factors that could contribute to the observed adverse effects. However, PFAS have been detected in the samples collected from different environmental compartments (e.g., water, soil, leachate, blood sera, rainwater) at and near e-waste processing sites, landfills, and near electronics and optoelectronics industries indicating that e-waste collection, processing, and disposal sites are potential PFAS exposure locations. Better monitoring of e-waste handling sites and detailed epidemiological studies for at risk populations are needed for assessing potential health risks due to PFAS exposure at these sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berrin Tansel
- Florida International University, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Florida, USA.
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83
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Ambaye TG, Vaccari M, Prasad S, Rtimi S. Recent progress and challenges on the removal of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from contaminated soil and water. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:58405-58428. [PMID: 35754080 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21513-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Currently, due to an increase in urbanization and industrialization around the world, a large volume of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) containing materials such as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), protective coatings, landfill leachates, and wastewater are produced. Most of the polluted wastewaters are left untreated and discharged into the environment, which causes high environmental risks, a threat to human beings, and hampered socioeconomic growth. Developing sustainable alternatives for removing PFAS from contaminated soil and water has attracted more attention from policymakers and scientists worldwide under various conditions. This paper reviews the recent emerging technologies for the degradation or sorption of PFAS to treat contaminated soil and water. It highlights the mechanisms involved in removing these persistent contaminants at a molecular level. Recent advances in developing nanostructured and advanced reduction remediation materials, challenges, and perspectives in the future are also discussed. Among the variety of nanomaterials, modified nano-sized iron oxides are the best sorbents materials due to their specific surface area and photogenerated holes and appear extremely promising in the remediation of PFAS from contaminated soil and water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teklit Gebregiorgis Ambaye
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brescia, Via Branze 43, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mentore Vaccari
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brescia, Via Branze 43, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Shiv Prasad
- Division of Environment Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute New Delhi, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Sami Rtimi
- Global Institute for Water, Environment and Health, CH-1201, Geneva, Switzerland.
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84
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Cookson ES, Detwiler RL. Global patterns and temporal trends of perfluoroalkyl substances in municipal wastewater: A meta-analysis. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 221:118784. [PMID: 35949071 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite increasing regulatory efforts to reduce production of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), continued human and ecological exposure to PFAS has led to concerns about historical releases. Municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) provide important conduits between waste sources and the environment. We present a meta-analysis of results reported in 44 peer-reviewed publications that include 460 influent and 528 effluent samples, collected from 21 countries, for which some or all of five perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) and three perfluorinated sulfonic acids (PFSAs) were measured. Our meta analysis revealed global patterns and trends that, to our knowledge, have not been reported elsewhere. Regression analyses of samples collected from 2004 to 2020 quantified the temporal trends of global wastewater effluent concentrations of each of the PFAS and the corresponding mean concentration for each country. Although legacy compounds, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), have been reported with the highest measured concentrations, their global temporal trends are lowest of all PFAS considered. Concentrations of most PFAS analyzed in wastewater in the United States have not changed significantly with time, whereas reported PFAS concentrations in wastewater effluent from China have increased from 11% to 37% per year. In addition, our results show significant positive correlations between previous wastewater effluent concentrations of individual PFAS and the gross domestic product per capita of each country. Our analysis of this global data set also confirmed conclusions from previous studies on smaller data sets: (i) none of the PFAS studied are effectively removed by conventional treatment processes; (ii) effluents from treatment plants that include a significant industrial component to their influent tend to have higher PFAS concentrations; and (iii) the few studies that measured both aqueous concentrations and concentrations adsorbed to suspended particulate matter (SPM) indicate that PFAS adsorbed to SPM can contribute significantly to the total PFAS load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther S Cookson
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Russell L Detwiler
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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85
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Berg C, Crone B, Gullett B, Higuchi M, Krause MJ, Lemieux PM, Martin T, Shields EP, Struble E, Thoma E, Whitehill A. Developing innovative treatment technologies for PFAS-containing wastes. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2022; 72:540-555. [PMID: 34905459 PMCID: PMC9316338 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2021.2000903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The release of persistent per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into the environment is a major concern for the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA). To complement its ongoing research efforts addressing PFAS contamination, the U.S. EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) commissioned the PFAS Innovative Treatment Team (PITT) to provide new perspectives on treatment and disposal of high priority PFAS-containing wastes. During its six-month tenure, the team was charged with identifying and developing promising solutions to destroy PFAS. The PITT examined emerging technologies for PFAS waste treatment and selected four technologies for further investigation. These technologies included mechanochemical treatment, electrochemical oxidation, gasification and pyrolysis, and supercritical water oxidation. This paper highlights these four technologies and discusses their prospects and the development needed before potentially becoming available solutions to address PFAS-contaminated waste.Implications: This paper examines four novel, non-combustion technologies or applications for the treatment of persistent per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) wastes. These technologies are introduced to the reader along with their current state of development and areas for further development. This information will be useful for developers, policy makers, and facility managers that are facing increasing issues with disposal of PFAS wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Berg
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian Crone
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Brian Gullett
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mark Higuchi
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Max J. Krause
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Paul M. Lemieux
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Todd Martin
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Erin P. Shields
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ed Struble
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eben Thoma
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrew Whitehill
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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86
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Efficient workflow for suspect screening analysis to characterize novel and legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in biosolids. Anal Bioanal Chem 2022; 414:4497-4507. [PMID: 35608671 PMCID: PMC9142425 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04088-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Land application of treated sewage sludge (also known as biosolids) is considered a sustainable route of disposal because it reduces waste loading into landfills while improving soil health. However, this waste management practice can introduce contaminants from biosolids, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), into the environment. PFAS have been observed to be taken up by plants, accumulate in humans and animals, and have been linked to various negative health effects. There is limited information on the nature and amounts of PFAS introduced from biosolids that have undergone different treatment processes. Therefore, this study developed analytical techniques to improve the characterization of PFAS in complex biosolid samples. Different clean-up techniques were evaluated and applied to waste-activated sludge (WAS) and lime-stabilized primary solids (PS) prior to targeted analysis and suspect screening of biosolid samples. Using liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass spectrometry, a workflow was developed to achieve parallel quantitative targeted analysis and qualitative suspect screening. This study found that concentrations of individual PFAS (27 targeted analytes) can range from 0.6 to 84.6 ng/g in WAS (average total PFAS = 241.4 ng/g) and from 1.6 to 33.8 ng/g in PS (average total PFAS = 72.1 ng/g). The suspect screening workflow identified seven additional PFAS in the biosolid samples, five of which have not been previously reported in environmental samples. Some of the newly identified compounds are a short-chain polyfluorinated carboxylate (a PFOS replacement), a diphosphate ester (a PFOA precursor), a possible transformation product of carboxylate PFAS, and an imidohydrazide which contains a sulfonate and benzene ring.
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87
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Liu Y, Mendoza-Perilla P, Clavier KA, Tolaymat TM, Bowden JA, Solo-Gabriele HM, Townsend TG. Municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash co-disposal: Influence on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) concentration in landfill leachate. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 144:49-56. [PMID: 35306465 PMCID: PMC10536760 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash is often managed through co-disposal with unburned wastes in landfills, a practice previously reported to result in enhanced leaching of pollutants (e.g., heavy metals) in landfill leachate. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of co-disposed unburned wastes on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in MSWI ash landfill leachate. Leachate was collected from four landfills containing MSWI ash, either as a sole waste stream or co-disposed of with sewage sludge and MSW screenings. Samples of ash and unburned materials were collected and assessed separately for leachable PFAS in the laboratory. All samples were analyzed for 26 PFAS. Results showed that greater ash content was associated with lower leachate PFAS concentrations. The pure ash monofill exhibited the lowest PFAS in landfill leachate (290 ng L-1) while the landfill contained a large amount of unburned waste had the highest PFAS (11,000 ng L-1). For laboratory leaching tests, average ∑26PFAS concentration in lab ash leachate (310 ng L-1) was 10 and 24 times lower than observed in lab sewage sludge leachate (3,200 ng L-1) and lab MSW screenings leachate (7,500 ng L-1), respectively. Leachate from the ash-only landfill had ∑26PFAS concentration similar to what was measured in the ash itself. On the contrary, ∑26PFAS concentration in co-disposal landfill leachates were similar to those in PFAS-rich unburned waste itself, regardless of the percentages of landfilled unburned wastes. We hypothesize that leachate generated in co-disposal scenarios preferentially flows through PFAS-rich unburned materials and that biotransformation of precursors enhanced by unburned waste degradation further contributes to higher concentrations of terminal PFAS in ash co-disposal sites. Landfill operators should expect PFAS in leachates to be higher when PFAS-rich unburned wastes are disposed of alongside MSWI ash, even if the unburned fraction is small.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Liu
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Paola Mendoza-Perilla
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Kyle A Clavier
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Risk Management Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- University of Miami, Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
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88
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Metcalfe CD, Bayen S, Desrosiers M, Muñoz G, Sauvé S, Yargeau V. An introduction to the sources, fate, occurrence and effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals released into the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 207:112658. [PMID: 34990614 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Many classes of compounds are known or suspected to disrupt the endocrine system of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. This review of the sources and fate of selected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the environment includes classes of compounds that are "legacy" contaminants, as well as contaminants of emerging concern. EDCs included for discussion are organochlorine compounds, halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, brominated flame retardants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, alkylphenols, phthalates, bisphenol A and analogues, pharmaceuticals, drugs of abuse and steroid hormones, personal care products, and organotins. An exhaustive survey of the fate of these contaminants in all environmental media (e.g., air, water, soil, biota, foods and beverages) is beyond the scope of this review, so the priority is to highlight the fate of EDCs in environmental media for which there is a clear link between exposure and endocrine effects in humans or in biota from other taxa. Where appropriate, linkages are also made between the fate of EDCs and regulatory limits such as environmental quality guidelines for water and sediments and total daily intake values for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S Bayen
- McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - M Desrosiers
- Ministère du Développement durable, de l'Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques du Québec. Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - G Muñoz
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - S Sauvé
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - V Yargeau
- McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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89
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Le ST, Gao Y, Kibbey TCG, Glamore WC, O'Carroll DM. Predicting the impact of salt mixtures on the air-water interfacial behavior of PFAS. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 819:151987. [PMID: 34843785 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Salts are known to have strong impacts on environmental behavior of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) including air-water interfacial adsorption. Multivalent salts impact interfacial adsorption to a greater extent than monovalent salts. Models to make a priori predictions of PFAS interfacial adsorption in the presence of multiple salts with different ionic charges are needed given the need to predict PFAS environmental fate. This study further develops a mass-action model to predict the interfacial behavior of PFAS as a function of both salt valency and concentration. The model is validated using surface tension data for a series of monovalent and divalent salt mixtures over a wide range of ionic strengths (i.e., from no added salt to 0.5 M) as well as comparison to data from literature. This model highlights the disproportionate impact of multivalent salts on interfacial adsorption and the practical utility of the model for predicting interfacial adsorption in the presence of multiple monovalent and multivalent inorganic salts. Results suggest that failure to account for divalent salt, even when concentrations are much smaller than monovalent salt, under most environmentally relevant aqueous phase conditions will result in significant underpredictions of PFAS interfacial adsorption. Simple examples of PFAS distribution in a range of salt conditions in the vadose zone and in aerated-water treatment reactors highlight the predictive utility of the model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song-Thao Le
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Yi Gao
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Tohren C G Kibbey
- School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA
| | - William C Glamore
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Denis M O'Carroll
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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90
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Muensterman DJ, Cahuas L, Titaley IA, Schmokel C, De la Cruz FB, Barlaz MA, Carignan CC, Peaslee GF, Field JA. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Facemasks: Potential Source of Human Exposure to PFAS with Implications for Disposal to Landfills. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2022; 9:320-326. [PMID: 37599856 PMCID: PMC10438898 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.2c00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Facemasks are important tools for fighting against disease spread, including Covid-19 and its variants, and some may be treated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Nine facemasks over a range of prices were analyzed for total fluorine and PFAS. The PFAS compositions of the masks were then used to estimate exposure and the mass of PFAS discharged to landfill leachate. Fluorine from PFAS accounted only for a small fraction of total fluorine. Homologous series of linear perfluoroalkyl carboxylates and the 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol indicated a fluorotelomer origin. Inhalation was estimated to be the dominant exposure route (40%-50%), followed by incidental ingestion (15%-40%) and dermal (11%-20%). Exposure and risk estimates were higher for children than adults, and high physical activity substantially increased inhalation exposure. These preliminary findings indicate that wearing masks treated with high levels of PFAS for extended periods of time can be a notable source of exposure and have the potential to pose a health risk. Despite modeled annual disposal of ~29-91 billion masks, and an assuming 100% leaching of individual PFAS into landfill leachate, mask disposal would contribute only an additional 6% of annual PFAS mass loads and less than 11 kg of PFAS discharged to U.S. wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek J. Muensterman
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Liliana Cahuas
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Ivan A. Titaley
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Christopher Schmokel
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Florentino B. De la Cruz
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7908, United States
| | - Morton A. Barlaz
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7908, United States
| | - Courtney C. Carignan
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Graham F. Peaslee
- Department of Physics, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Jennifer A. Field
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
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91
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Thoma ED, Wright RS, George I, Krause M, Presezzi D, Villa V, Preston W, Deshmukh P, Kauppi P, Zemek PG. Pyrolysis processing of PFAS-impacted biosolids, a pilot study. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2022; 72:309-318. [PMID: 34870569 PMCID: PMC9128340 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2021.2009935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) present in wastewater treatment biosolids are a growing concern. Pyrolysis is a thermal treatment technology for biosolids that can produce a useful biochar product with reduced levels of PFAS and other contaminants. In August 2020, a limited-scope study investigated target PFAS removal of a commercial pyrolysis system processing biosolid with the analysis of 41 target PFAS compounds in biosolids and biochar performed by two independent laboratories. The concentrations of 21 detected target compounds in the input biosolids ranged between approximately 2 µg/kg and 85 µg/kg. No PFAS compounds were detected in the biochar. The PFAS concentrations in the biochar were assumed to equal the compounds' minimum detection limits (MDLs). The pyrolysis system's target PFAS removal efficiencies (REs) were estimated to range between >81.3% and >99.9% (mean >97.4%) with the lowest REs being associated with the lowest detected PFAS concentrations and the highest MDLs. No information on non-target PFAS compounds in influent or effluent media or products of incomplete combustion was considered. Selected gaseous emissions were measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry to provide additional information on air emissions after process controls. This limited-scope study indicated that additional research to further understand this process is warranted.Implications: Development of alternative approaches to manage PFAS-impacted biosolids is of emerging international importance. A commercially operating biosolid pyrolysis process was shown to lower target PFAS levels in produced biochar. Additional research is warranted to understand all potential PFAS transformation emission routes and optimal air pollution emissions control strategies for this technology class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eben D. Thoma
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Research Triangle Park (EPA-RTP), NC, USA
| | - Robert S. Wright
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Research Triangle Park (EPA-RTP), NC, USA
| | - Ingrid George
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Research Triangle Park (EPA-RTP), NC, USA
| | - Max Krause
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Phil Kauppi
- Montrose Air Quality Services, Mt. Pleasant MI and Irvine CA, USA
| | - Peter G. Zemek
- Montrose Air Quality Services, Mt. Pleasant MI and Irvine CA, USA
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92
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Longendyke GK, Katel S, Wang Y. PFAS fate and destruction mechanisms during thermal treatment: a comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2022; 24:196-208. [PMID: 34985474 DOI: 10.1039/d1em00465d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent chemicals and have been detected throughout the environment. Thermal treatment is the most common remediation approach for PFAS-contaminated solid wastes. Although various thermal treatment techniques have demonstrated the potential to destruct PFAS, the fate of PFAS, removal efficacy, potential emissions, and the formation of incomplete combustion products during thermal treatment are little known. This study provides a critical review on the behavior of PFAS based on different types of thermal treatment technologies with various PFAS-impacted environmental medias that include water, soil, sewage sludge, pure PFAS materials, and other PFAS-containing wastes. Different extents of PFAS thermal destruction are observed across various thermal treatment techniques and operating conditions. PFAS removal and destruction efficiencies rely heavily on PFAS structures, the complex combustion chemistry, the presence or absence of oxygen, temperature, and other operational conditions. This review also covers proposed PFAS thermal destruction mechanisms. Different thermal destruction mechanisms for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), and other PFAS are reviewed and compared. The majority of studies about PFAS thermal destruction mechanisms were focused on a specific list of PFAS and based mostly on the pyrolysis treatment. The basic pathway for PFAS destruction during pyrolysis is hydrodefluorination, which could be largely influenced by the alkaline condition. Future field-scale research that involves the characterization of PFAS destruction products and incomplete combustion products is needed to address public concerns and better emission control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace K Longendyke
- Department of Geological Sciences and Environmental Studies, Binghamton University, 4400 Vestal Pkwy E, Vestal, NY 13850, USA.
| | - Sebica Katel
- Biochemistry, Binghamton University, 4400 Vestal Pkwy E, Vestal, NY 13850, USA
| | - Yuxin Wang
- Department of Geological Sciences and Environmental Studies, Binghamton University, 4400 Vestal Pkwy E, Vestal, NY 13850, USA.
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93
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Helmer RW, Reeves DM, Cassidy DP. Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) cycling within Michigan: Contaminated sites, landfills and wastewater treatment plants. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 210:117983. [PMID: 34954365 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) from public and private sources in Michigan compiled for wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) (influent, effluent, biosolids), contaminated sites, and landfill leachates reveal complex cycling within the natural and engineered environment. Analysis of 171 contaminated sites in Michigan by source release indicate four dominant PFAS sources - landfills, aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), metal platers, and automotive/metal stamping - account for 75% of the contamination. Diverse chemical signatures were observed for leachates collected from 19 landfills (mostly type II municipal) with the dominant PFAS ranging from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) to shorter-chained compounds, perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), and perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS). Analysis of PFAS carbon chain length as a function of landfill age shows the transition of C8s in leachate from older landfills to C4s and C6s in younger landfills, consistent with the phasing out and replacement of C8s. PFAS mass flux in leachate for landfills studied range between 5 - 2,000 g/yr and are highest for active landfills, which generate greater leachate volumes and contain fresh PFAS wastes. Detailed study of 10 WWTPs with industrial pretreatment programs indicate numerous chemical transformations across the plants that yield effluent PFAS concentrations as much as 19 times greater than influent, attributed to transformations of unmeasured precursors in the influent to measured, stable PFAS in the effluent. PFOA, PFHxA, perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), PFBA, and PFBS show the greatest increases across the plant ranging from 20% to nearly 2,000%. PFOS concentrations decreased across 6 WWTPs, consistent with a strong tendency to adsorb onto biosolids. Estimated mass of discharge of (mostly unregulated) PFAS from WWTPs to receiving waters range from 40 g/yr to 128 kg/yr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross W Helmer
- Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Western Michigan University, 1903W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5241, USA; Water Resources Division, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, 525W. Allegan St, Lansing, MI, 48933, USA
| | - Donald M Reeves
- Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Western Michigan University, 1903W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5241, USA.
| | - Daniel P Cassidy
- Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Western Michigan University, 1903W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5241, USA
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94
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Young RB, Pica NE, Sharifan H, Chen H, Roth HK, Blakney GT, Borch T, Higgins CP, Kornuc JJ, McKenna AM, Blotevogel J. PFAS Analysis with Ultrahigh Resolution 21T FT-ICR MS: Suspect and Nontargeted Screening with Unrivaled Mass Resolving Power and Accuracy. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:2455-2465. [PMID: 35099180 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c08143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a large family of thousands of chemicals, many of which have been identified using nontargeted time-of-flight and Orbitrap mass spectrometry methods. Comprehensive characterization of complex PFAS mixtures is critical to assess their environmental transport, transformation, exposure, and uptake. Because 21 tesla (T) Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) offers the highest available mass resolving power and sub-ppm mass errors across a wide molecular weight range, we developed a nontargeted 21 T FT-ICR MS method to screen for PFASs in an aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) using suspect screening, a targeted formula database (C, H, Cl, F, N, O, P, S; ≤865 Da), isotopologues, and Kendrick-analogous mass difference networks (KAMDNs). False-positive PFAS identifications in a natural organic matter (NOM) sample, which served as the negative control, suggested that a minimum length of 3 should be imposed when annotating CF2-homologous series with positive mass defects. We putatively identified 163 known PFASs during suspect screening, as well as 134 novel PFASs during nontargeted screening, including a suspected polyethoxylated perfluoroalkane sulfonamide series. This study shows that 21 T FT-ICR MS analysis can provide unique insights into complex PFAS composition and expand our understanding of PFAS chemistries in impacted matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Young
- Chemical Analysis & Instrumentation Laboratory, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, United States
| | - Nasim E Pica
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
- Weston Solutions, Lakewood, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Hamidreza Sharifan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
- Department of Natural Science, Albany State University, Albany, Georgia 31705, United States
| | - Huan Chen
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
| | - Holly K Roth
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Greg T Blakney
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
| | - Thomas Borch
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
- Department of Soil & Crop Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - John J Kornuc
- NAVFAC EXWC, 1100 23rd Avenue, Port Hueneme, California 93041, United States
| | - Amy M McKenna
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
- Department of Soil & Crop Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Jens Blotevogel
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
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95
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Evich MG, Davis MJB, McCord JP, Acrey B, Awkerman JA, Knappe DRU, Lindstrom AB, Speth TF, Stevens CT, Strynar MJ, Wang Z, Weber EJ, Henderson WM, Washington JW. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the environment. Science 2022; 375:eabg9065. [PMID: 35113710 PMCID: PMC8902460 DOI: 10.1126/science.abg9065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 383] [Impact Index Per Article: 191.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several years, the term PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has grown to be emblematic of environmental contamination, garnering public, scientific, and regulatory concern. PFAS are synthesized by two processes, direct fluorination (e.g., electrochemical fluorination) and oligomerization (e.g., fluorotelomerization). More than a megatonne of PFAS is produced yearly, and thousands of PFAS wind up in end-use products. Atmospheric and aqueous fugitive releases during manufacturing, use, and disposal have resulted in the global distribution of these compounds. Volatile PFAS facilitate long-range transport, commonly followed by complex transformation schemes to recalcitrant terminal PFAS, which do not degrade under environmental conditions and thus migrate through the environment and accumulate in biota through multiple pathways. Efforts to remediate PFAS-contaminated matrices still are in their infancy, with much current research targeting drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina G. Evich
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - Mary J. B. Davis
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - James P. McCord
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - Brad Acrey
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - Jill A. Awkerman
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - Detlef R. U. Knappe
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Andrew B. Lindstrom
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment
| | - Thomas F. Speth
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response
| | - Caroline T. Stevens
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - Mark J. Strynar
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - Zhanyun Wang
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Eric J. Weber
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - W. Matthew Henderson
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
| | - John W. Washington
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling
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96
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Suresh Babu D, Mol JMC, Buijnsters JG. Experimental insights into anodic oxidation of hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (GenX) on boron-doped diamond anodes. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 288:132417. [PMID: 34606896 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
GenX is the trade name of the ammonium salt of hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA) and is used as a replacement for the banned perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). However, recent studies have found GenX to be more toxic than PFOA. This work deals with the electrochemical degradation of HFPO-DA using boron-doped diamond anodes. For the first time, an experimental study was conducted to investigate the influence of sulfate concentration and other operating parameters on HFPO-DA degradation. Results demonstrated that sulfate radicals were ineffective in HFPO-DA degradation due to steric hindrance by -CF3 branch. Direct electron transfer was found as the rate-determining step. By comparing degradation of HFPO-DA with that of PFOA, it was observed that the steric hindrance by -CF3 branch in HFPO-DA decreased the rate of electron transfer from the carboxyl head group even though its defluorination rate was faster. Conclusively, a degradation pathway is proposed in which HFPO-DA mineralizes to CO2 and F- via formation of three intermediates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diwakar Suresh Babu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Johannes M C Mol
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Josephus G Buijnsters
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Research Group of Micro and Nano Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands.
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97
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Li X, Fatowe M, Cui D, Quinete N. Assessment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in Biscayne Bay surface waters and tap waters from South Florida. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150393. [PMID: 34562756 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent anthropogenic pollutants present in many environmental media worldwide due to their extensive uses in many industrial and commercial products combined with their high thermal and chemical stabilities. Its ubiquitous presence in surface and drinking water supply and significant adverse health effects observed in wildlife and humans, associated with its bioaccumulation potential, pose big concerns. In this study, we have developed and validated a semi-automated solid phase extraction (SPE) followed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for the determination of legacy and emerging short-chain PFAS substitutes in surface and tap water at low parts-per-trillion (ppt) levels in South Florida environments. Surface waters from Biscayne Bay and adjacent canals (n = 15) and tap waters from different counties (Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County) (n = 21) were collected between October 2020 (wet season) and February 2021 (dry season). Total PFAS concentrations up to 242 ng L-1 (average of 168 ng L-1) were found in tap water from Grapeland Heights, which is the closest location to the Miami international airport that was sampled. The highest average total PFAS level of 106 ng L-1 was observed in surface water from the Biscayne Canal C-8 for the wet and dry season. In general, average total PFAS was higher in tap water (86.3 ng L-1) than in surface waters (46.3 ng L-1), whereas the most predominant and frequently detected PFAS were PFBA, PFBS, PFPeA, PFHxA, PFHxS, PFOA and PFOS. PFAS levels found could represent a high human health risk, and ecological risk based on PFOS levels above recommended thresholds are also noted. Such knowledge on PFAS occurrence, distribution and sources in South Florida will provide essential information for local and regional regulatory agencies related to water quality, further facilitating the development of guidelines and procedures for PFAS pollution control and reduction in Florida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuerong Li
- Institute of Environment, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Modesto A. Maidique Campus, Miami, FL 33199, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, 3000 NE 151st street, Biscayne Bay Campus, North Miami, FL 33181, USA
| | - Morgan Fatowe
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, 3000 NE 151st street, Biscayne Bay Campus, North Miami, FL 33181, USA
| | - Danni Cui
- Institute of Environment, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Modesto A. Maidique Campus, Miami, FL 33199, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, 3000 NE 151st street, Biscayne Bay Campus, North Miami, FL 33181, USA
| | - Natalia Quinete
- Institute of Environment, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Modesto A. Maidique Campus, Miami, FL 33199, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, 3000 NE 151st street, Biscayne Bay Campus, North Miami, FL 33181, USA.
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98
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Zhang F, Peng Y, Wang Z, Jiang H, Ren S, Qiu J, Zhang L. An Innovative Process for Mature Landfill Leachate and Waste Activated Sludge Simultaneous Treatment Based on Partial Nitrification, In Situ Fermentation, and Anammox (PNFA). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:1310-1320. [PMID: 34941249 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c06049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An innovative partial nitrification, in situ fermentation, and Anammox (PNFA) system was developed to achieve mature landfill leachate and waste activated sludge simultaneous treatment. Three separate sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) were used for partial nitrification (PN-SBR), integrated fermentation-denitrification (IFD-SBR), and partial nitrification-Anammox (PNA-SBR). After 200 days of continuous operation, a satisfactory nitrogen removal efficiency (NRE) of 99.2 ± 0.1% was obtained, with an effluent total nitrogen (TN) of 15.2 ± 3.2 mg/L. In IFD-SBR, the volatile fatty acids generated from fermentation drove efficient denitrification, obtaining sludge and nitrogen reduction rates of 4.2 ± 0.7 and 0.61 ± 0.04 kg/m3·day, respectively. Furthermore, unwanted fermentation metabolites (134.1 mg/L NH4+-N) were further treated by PNA-SBR using a combination of step-feed and intermittent aeration strategies. In PNA-SBR, Anammox significantly contributed to 82.1% nitrogen removal, and Anammox bacteria (Candidatus Brocadia, 2.3%) mutually benefited with partially denitrifying microorganisms (Thauera, 4.2%), with 66.3% of generated nitrate reduced to nitrite and then reutilized in situ by Anammox. Compared with the conventional nitrification-denitrification process, PNFA reduced oxygen energy consumption, external carbon source dosage, and CO2 emission by 21.3, 100, and 38.9%, respectively, and obtained 50.1% external WAS reduction efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangzhai Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Engineering Research Center of Beijing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, PR China
| | - Yongzhen Peng
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Engineering Research Center of Beijing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, PR China
| | - Zhong Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Engineering Research Center of Beijing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, PR China
| | - Hao Jiang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Engineering Research Center of Beijing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, PR China
| | - Shang Ren
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Engineering Research Center of Beijing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, PR China
| | - Jingang Qiu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Engineering Research Center of Beijing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, PR China
| | - Liang Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Engineering Research Center of Beijing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, PR China
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99
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Kabiri S, Tucker W, Navarro DA, Bräunig J, Thompson K, Knight ER, Nguyen TMH, Grimison C, Barnes CM, Higgins CP, Mueller JF, Kookana RS, McLaughlin MJ. Comparing the Leaching Behavior of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances from Contaminated Soils Using Static and Column Leaching Tests. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:368-378. [PMID: 34932318 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c06604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Soil contaminated with aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) at firefighting training sites has become a major concern worldwide. To date, most studies have focused on assessing soil-water partitioning behavior of PFASs and the key factors that can affect their sorption, whereas PFASs leaching from contaminated soils have not yet been widely investigated. This study evaluated the leaching and desorption of a wide range of PFASs from twelve contaminated soils using the Australian Standard Leaching Procedure (ASLP), the U.S. EPA Multiple Extraction Procedure (MEP), and Leaching Environmental Assessment Framework (LEAF). All three leaching tests provided a similar assessment of PFAS leaching behavior. Leaching of PFASs from soils was related to C-chain lengths and their functional head groups. While short-chain (CF2 ≤ 6) PFASs were easily desorbed and leached, long-chain PFASs were more difficult to desorb. PFASs with a carboxylate head group were leached more readily and to a greater extent than those with a sulfonate or sulfonamide head group. Leaching of long-chain PFASs was pH-dependent where leaching increased at high pH, while leaching of short-chain PFASs was less sensitive to pH. Comparing different leaching tests showed that the results using the alkaline ASLP were similar to the cumulative MEP data and the former might be more practical for routine use than the MEP. No single soil property was adequately able to describe PFAS leaching from the soils. Overall, the PFAS chemical structure appeared to have a greater effect on PFAS leaching from soil than soil physicochemical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Kabiri
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, Waite Campus, PMB1, Glen Osmond, South Australia 5064, Australia
| | - William Tucker
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, Waite Campus, PMB1, Glen Osmond, South Australia 5064, Australia
| | - Divina A Navarro
- CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 2, Glen Osmond, South Australia 5064, Australia
| | - Jennifer Bräunig
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Kristie Thompson
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Emma R Knight
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Thi Minh Hong Nguyen
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | | | - Craig M Barnes
- Airservices Australia, 25 Constitution Avenue, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Jochen F Mueller
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Rai S Kookana
- CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 2, Glen Osmond, South Australia 5064, Australia
| | - Michael J McLaughlin
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, Waite Campus, PMB1, Glen Osmond, South Australia 5064, Australia
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100
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Pisharody L, Gopinath A, Malhotra M, Nidheesh PV, Kumar MS. Occurrence of organic micropollutants in municipal landfill leachate and its effective treatment by advanced oxidation processes. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 287:132216. [PMID: 34517234 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Landfilling is the most prominently adopted disposal technique for managing municipal solid waste across the globe. However, the main drawback associated with this method is the generation of leachate from the landfill site. Leachate, a highly concentrated liquid consisting of both organic and inorganic components arises environmental issues as it contaminates the nearby aquifers. Landfill leachate treatment by conventional methods is not preferred as the treatment methods are not much effective to remove these pollutants. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) based on both hydroxyl and sulfate radicals could be a promising method to remove the micropollutants completely or convert them to non-toxic compounds. The current review focuses on the occurrence of micropollutants in landfill leachate, their detection methods and removal from landfill leachate using AOPs. Pharmaceuticals and personal care products occur in the range of 10-1 to more than 100 μg L-1 whereas phthalates were found below the detectable limit to 384 μg L-1, pesticides in the order of 10-1 μg L-1 and polyaromatic hydrocarbons occur in concentration from 10-2 to 114.7 μg L-1. Solid-phase extraction is the most preferred method for extracting micropollutants from leachate and liquid chromatography (LC) - mass spectrophotometer (MS) for detecting the micropollutants. Limited studies have been focused on AOPs as a potential method for the degradation of micropollutants in landfill leachate. The potential of Fenton based techniques, electrochemical AOPs and ozonation are investigated for the removal of micropollutants from leachate whereas the applicability of photocatalysis for the removal of a wide variety of micropollutants from leachate needs in-depth studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Pisharody
- The Zuckerberg Institute of Water Research, Ben-Gurion University, Israel
| | - Ashitha Gopinath
- Environmental Impact and Sustainability Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Milan Malhotra
- Environmental Science and Engineering Department, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400076, India
| | - P V Nidheesh
- Environmental Impact and Sustainability Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
| | - M Suresh Kumar
- Environmental Impact and Sustainability Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
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