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Sörengård M, Gago-Ferrero P, B Kleja D, Ahrens L. Laboratory-scale and pilot-scale stabilization and solidification (S/S) remediation of soil contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 402:123453. [PMID: 32707463 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Remediation of soil contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is critical due to the high persistence and mobility of these compounds. In this study, stabilization and solidification (S/S) treatment was evaluated at pilot-scale using 6 tons of soil contaminated with PFAS-containing aqueous film-forming foam. At pilot-scale, long-term PFAS removal over 6 years of precipitation (simulated using irrigation) in leachate from non-treated contaminated reference soil and S/S-treated soil with 15 % binder and 0.2 % GAC was compared. PFAS removal rate from leachate, corresponding to reduction in leaching potential after 6 years, was >97 % for four dominant PFASs (perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)), but low (3%) for short-chain perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA). During the pilot-scale experiment, PFAS sorption strength (i.e., soil-water partitioning coefficient (Kd)) increased 2- to 40-fold for both reference and S/S-treated soil, to much higher levels than in laboratory-scale tests. However, PFAS behavior in pilot-scale and laboratory-scale tests was generally well-correlated (p < 0.001), which will help in future S/S recipe optimization. In addition, seven PFASs were tentatively identified using an automated suspect screening approach. Among these, perfluorohexanesulfonamide and 3:2 fluorotelomer alcohol were tentatively identified and the latter had low removal rates from leachate (<12 %) in S/S treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Sörengård
- Department of Aquatic Science and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden.
| | - Pablo Gago-Ferrero
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), Carrer Emili Grahit 101, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Dan B Kleja
- Swedish Geotechnical Institute (SGI), SE-581 93, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Soil and Environment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7014, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department of Aquatic Science and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden
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152
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Wong ELS, Vuong KQ, Chow E. Nanozymes for Environmental Pollutant Monitoring and Remediation. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 21:E408. [PMID: 33430087 PMCID: PMC7827938 DOI: 10.3390/s21020408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Nanozymes are advanced nanomaterials which mimic natural enzymes by exhibiting enzyme-like properties. As nanozymes offer better structural stability over their respective natural enzymes, they are ideal candidates for real-time and/or remote environmental pollutant monitoring and remediation. In this review, we classify nanozymes into four types depending on their enzyme-mimicking behaviour (active metal centre mimic, functional mimic, nanocomposite or 3D structural mimic) and offer mechanistic insights into the nature of their catalytic activity. Following this, we discuss the current environmental translation of nanozymes into a powerful sensing or remediation tool through inventive nano-architectural design of nanozymes and their transduction methodologies. Here, we focus on recent developments in nanozymes for the detection of heavy metal ions, pesticides and other organic pollutants, emphasising optical methods and a few electrochemical techniques. Strategies to remediate persistent organic pollutants such as pesticides, phenols, antibiotics and textile dyes are included. We conclude with a discussion on the practical deployment of these nanozymes in terms of their effectiveness, reusability, real-time in-field application, commercial production and regulatory considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Edith Chow
- Aperture, Ryde, NSW 2112, Australia; (E.L.S.W.); (K.Q.V.)
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153
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Bolan N, Sarkar B, Yan Y, Li Q, Wijesekara H, Kannan K, Tsang DCW, Schauerte M, Bosch J, Noll H, Ok YS, Scheckel K, Kumpiene J, Gobindlal K, Kah M, Sperry J, Kirkham MB, Wang H, Tsang YF, Hou D, Rinklebe J. Remediation of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contaminated soils - To mobilize or to immobilize or to degrade? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 401:123892. [PMID: 33113753 PMCID: PMC8025151 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are synthetic chemicals, which are introduced to the environment through anthropogenic activities. Aqueous film forming foam used in firefighting, wastewater effluent, landfill leachate, and biosolids are major sources of PFAS input to soil and groundwater. Remediation of PFAS contaminated solid and aqueous media is challenging, which is attributed to the chemical and thermal stability of PFAS and the complexity of PFAS mixtures. In this review, remediation of PFAS contaminated soils through manipulation of their bioavailability and destruction is presented. While the mobilizing amendments (e.g., surfactants) enhance the mobility and bioavailability of PFAS, the immobilizing amendments (e.g., activated carbon) decrease their bioavailability and mobility. Mobilizing amendments can be applied to facilitate the removal of PFAS though soil washing, phytoremediation, and complete destruction through thermal and chemical redox reactions. Immobilizing amendments are likely to reduce the transfer of PFAS to food chain through plant and biota (e.g., earthworm) uptake, and leaching to potable water sources. Future studies should focus on quantifying the potential leaching of the mobilized PFAS in the absence of removal by plant and biota uptake or soil washing, and regular monitoring of the long-term stability of the immobilized PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanthi Bolan
- The Global Centre for Environmental Remediation, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom
| | - Yubo Yan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiao Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, People's Republic of China
| | - Hasintha Wijesekara
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, 70140, Sri Lanka
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Daniel C W Tsang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Marina Schauerte
- Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Institute of Soil Engineering, Waste- and Water-Management, Faculty of Architecture und Civil Engineering, University of Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Julian Bosch
- INTRAPORE GmbH, Advanced In Situ Groundwater Remediation, Essen, Leipzig, Mailand, Katernberger Str. 107, 45327 Essen, Germany
| | - Hendrik Noll
- INTRAPORE GmbH, Advanced In Situ Groundwater Remediation, Essen, Leipzig, Mailand, Katernberger Str. 107, 45327 Essen, Germany
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, APRU Sustainable Waste Management, Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kirk Scheckel
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Environmental Solutions & Emergency Response, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jurate Kumpiene
- Waste Science and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Kapish Gobindlal
- Centre for Green Chemical Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Kah
- School of Environment, The University of Auckland, 23 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan Sperry
- Centre for Green Chemical Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - M B Kirkham
- Department of Agronomy, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506 USA
| | - Hailong Wang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiu Fai Tsang
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, New Territories 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, People's Republic of China
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Institute of Soil Engineering, Waste- and Water-Management, Faculty of Architecture und Civil Engineering, University of Wuppertal, Germany; Department of Environment, Energy and Geoinformatics, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, South Korea
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154
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Liu Y, Robey NM, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, da Silva BF, Solo-Gabriele HM, Townsend TG. From Waste Collection Vehicles to Landfills: Indication of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS) Transformation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2021; 8:66-72. [PMID: 37850075 PMCID: PMC10581401 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.0c00819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Municipal solid waste contain diverse and significant amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and these compounds may transform throughout the "landfilling" process from transport through landfill degradation. Fresh vehicle leachates, from commercial and residential waste collection vehicles at a transfer station, were measured for 51 PFAS. Results were compared to PFAS levels obtained from aged landfill leachate at the disposal facility. The landfill leachate was dominated by perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs, including perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs); 86% of the total PFAS, by median mass concentration), while the majority of PFAS present in commercial and residential waste vehicle leachate were PFAA-precursors (70% and 56% of the total PFAS, by median mass concentration, respectively), suggesting precursor transformation to PFAAs during the course of landfill disposal. In addition, several PFAS, which are not routinely monitored-perfluoropropane sulfonic acid (PFPrS), 8-chloro-perfluoro-1-octane sulfonic acid (8Cl-PFOS), chlorinated polyfluoroether sulfonic acids (6:2, 8:2 Cl-PFESAs), sodium dodecafluoro-3H-4,8-dioxanonanoate (NaDONA), and perfluoro-4-ethylcyclohexanesulfonate (PFECHS)-were detected. Potential degradation pathways were proposed based on published studies: transformation of polyfluoroalkyl phosphate diester (diPAPs) and fluorotelomer sulfonic acids (FTS) to form PFCAs via formation of intermediate products such as fluorotelomer carboxylic acids (FTCAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Nicole M Robey
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- National Risk Management Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268, United States
| | - Bianca F da Silva
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 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
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental, Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
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155
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Calvert L, Green MP, De Iuliis GN, Dun MD, Turner BD, Clarke BO, Eamens AL, Roman SD, Nixon B. Assessment of the Emerging Threat Posed by Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances to Male Reproduction in Humans. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:799043. [PMID: 35356147 PMCID: PMC8959433 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.799043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Per-fluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of synthetic fluorinated chemicals used widely in industry and consumer products. Due to their extensive use and chemical stability, PFAS are ubiquitous environmental contaminants and as such, form an emerging risk factor for male reproductive health. The long half-lives of PFAS is of particular concern as the propensity to accumulate in biological systems prolong the time taken for excretion, taking years in many cases. Accordingly, there is mounting evidence supporting a negative association between PFAS exposure and an array of human health conditions. However, inconsistencies among epidemiological and experimental findings have hindered the ability to definitively link negative reproductive outcomes to specific PFAS exposure. This situation highlights the requirement for further investigation and the identification of reliable biological models that can inform health risks, allowing sensitive assessment of the spectrum of effects of PFAS exposure on humans. Here, we review the literature on the biological effects of PFAS exposure, with a specific focus on male reproduction, owing to its utility as a sentinel marker of general health. Indeed, male infertility has increasingly been shown to serve as an early indicator of a range of co-morbidities such as coronary, inflammatory, and metabolic diseases. It follows that adverse associations have been established between PFAS exposure and the incidence of testicular dysfunction, including pathologies such as testicular cancer and a reduction in semen quality. We also give consideration to the mechanisms that render the male reproductive tract vulnerable to PFAS mediated damage, and discuss novel remediation strategies to mitigate the negative impact of PFAS contamination and/or to ameliorate the PFAS load of exposed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Calvert
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
| | - Mark P. Green
- School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Geoffry N. De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew D. Dun
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett D. Turner
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Geotechnical Science and Engineering, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Bradley O. Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew L. Eamens
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
| | - Shaun D. Roman
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Drug Development, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Brett Nixon,
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156
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Gassmann M, Weidemann E, Stahl T. Combined leaching and plant uptake simulations of PFOA and PFOS under field conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:2097-2107. [PMID: 32865684 PMCID: PMC7785559 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10594-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are used in industrial production and manufacturing but were repeatedly detected in agricultural soils and therefore in cash crops in recent years. Dissipation of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), a sub-group of PFASs, in the environment was rather attributed to the formation of non-extractable residues (NER) than to degradation or transformation. Currently, there are no models describing the fate of PFAAs in the soil-plant continuum under field conditions, which hampers an assessment of potential groundwater and food contamination. Therefore, we tested the ability of the pesticide-leaching model MACRO to simulate the leaching and plant uptake of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in a field lysimeter using two concepts of adsorption: a kinetic two-side sorption concept usually applied for pesticide leaching (scenario I) and the formation of NER (scenario II). The breakthrough of substances could be simulated adequately in scenario II only. Scenario I, however, was not able to reproduce sampled leaching concentrations. Plant uptake was simulated well in the first year after contamination but lacked adequacy in the following years. The model results suggest that more than 90% of PFOA and PFOS are in the pool of NER after 8 years, which is more compared with other studies. However, since NER formation was hypothesized to be a kinetic process and our study used a PFASs leaching time series over a period of 8 years, the results are reasonable. Further research is required on the formation of NER and the uptake of PFAAs into plants in order to gain a better model performance and extend the simulation approach to other PFAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gassmann
- Department Hydrology and Substance Balance, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Eva Weidemann
- Department Hydrology and Substance Balance, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Thorsten Stahl
- Chemical and Veterinary Analytical Institute Münsterland-Emscher-Lippe, Münster, Germany
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157
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Senevirathna STMLD, Mahinroosta R, Li M, KrishnaPillai K. In situ soil flushing to remediate confined soil contaminated with PFOS- an innovative solution for emerging environmental issue. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 262:127606. [PMID: 32805650 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
PerFluoroOctane Sulfonate (PFOS), is a toxic anthropogenic chemical that has been produced and gradually released into the environment for the past seven decades. An accurate audit of global PFOS contamination and contaminated sites are yet to be published. The available technologies to remediate PFOS contaminated soil are limited and often basic strategies such as temporary soil containment are adopted as immediate measures to manage the contaminated sites. In this study, the in situ soil flushing technique is assessed for its capacity to remediate soil contaminated with PFOS. A complete treatment process with several operation units was proposed such as solvent flushing, ground water pumping, solvent recovery and water treatment for PFOS. Potential solvents were identified and it was observed that more than 98% PFOS removal could be attained by flushing with five bed volumes of 50% ethanol. In addition, the study investigated thirteen commercially available filter materials and identified PFA694E, K6362, MP 62, Amberlite IRA 67 and Dowexoptopore V493 as suitable to eliminate PFOS with competitive PFOS adsorption characteristics. The proposed method can be recommended to remediate PFOS in recognised contaminated soils, such as those at defence sites. Furthermore, a contaminated site with favourable characteristics to implement the suggested method was identified in Australia and described in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- S T M L D Senevirathna
- CSU Engineering, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Panorama Avenue, Bathurst, NSW, Australia; Institute of Land, Water, and Society, Charles Sturt University, Australia.
| | - Reza Mahinroosta
- CSU Engineering, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Panorama Avenue, Bathurst, NSW, Australia; Institute of Land, Water, and Society, Charles Sturt University, Australia
| | - Miao Li
- CSU Engineering, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Panorama Avenue, Bathurst, NSW, Australia; Institute of Land, Water, and Society, Charles Sturt University, Australia
| | - Karthika KrishnaPillai
- CSU Engineering, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Panorama Avenue, Bathurst, NSW, Australia; Institute of Land, Water, and Society, Charles Sturt University, Australia
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158
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Eke J, Banks L, Mottaleb MA, Morris AJ, Tsyusko OV, Escobar IC. Dual-Functional Phosphorene Nanocomposite Membranes for the Treatment of Perfluorinated Water: An Investigation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid Removal via Filtration Combined with Ultraviolet Irradiation or Oxygenation. MEMBRANES 2020; 11:membranes11010018. [PMID: 33375603 PMCID: PMC7824437 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Nanomaterials with tunable properties show promise because of their size-dependent electronic structure and controllable physical properties. The purpose of this research was to develop and validate environmentally safe nanomaterial-based approach for treatment of drinking water including removal and degradation of per- and polyfluorinated chemicals (PFAS). PFAS are surfactant chemicals with broad uses that are now recognized as contaminants with a significant risk to human health. They are commonly used in household and industrial products. They are extremely persistent in the environment because they possess both hydrophobic fluorine-saturated carbon chains and hydrophilic functional groups, along with being oleophobic. Traditional drinking water treatment technologies are usually ineffective for the removal of PFAS from contaminated waters, because they are normally present in exiguous concentrations and have unique properties that make them persistent. Therefore, there is a critical need for safe and efficient remediation methods for PFAS, particularly in drinking water. The proposed novel approach has also a potential application for decreasing PFAS background levels in analytical systems. In this study, nanocomposite membranes composed of sulfonated poly ether ether ketone (SPEEK) and two-dimensional phosphorene were fabricated, and they obtained on average 99% rejection of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) alongside with a 99% removal from the PFOA that accumulated on surface of the membrane. The removal of PFOA accumulated on the membrane surface achieved 99% after the membranes were treated with ultraviolet (UV) photolysis and liquid aerobic oxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyner Eke
- Center of Membrane Sciences, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, 177 FPAT, Lexington, KY 40506-0046, USA; (J.E.); (L.B.)
| | - Lillian Banks
- Center of Membrane Sciences, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, 177 FPAT, Lexington, KY 40506-0046, USA; (J.E.); (L.B.)
| | - M. Abdul Mottaleb
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, 177 FPAT, Lexington, KY 40506-0046, USA; (M.A.M.); (A.J.M.)
- Institute of Drug & Biotherapeutic Innovation, Saint Louis University, 1100 South Grand Blvd, Saint Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Andrew J. Morris
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, 177 FPAT, Lexington, KY 40506-0046, USA; (M.A.M.); (A.J.M.)
| | - Olga V. Tsyusko
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Kentucky, 1100 S. Limestone St., Lexington, KY 40546-0091, USA;
| | - Isabel C. Escobar
- Center of Membrane Sciences, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, 177 FPAT, Lexington, KY 40506-0046, USA; (J.E.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence:
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159
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Cody R, Maleknia SD. Coated glass capillaries as SPME devices for DART mass spectrometry. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2020; 34:e8946. [PMID: 32918514 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.8946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) provides high-throughput sample cleanup and pre-concentration. Here we demonstrate coated glass capillaries (CGCs) as SPME devices for specific applications in direct analysis in real time (DART) mass spectrometry, referred to as "CGC-DART", for rapid screening of environmental contaminants at low parts-per-trillion detection limits and with accurate identification of analytes. METHODS The extraction is performed in a one-step process in minutes by dipping the CGC in solutions containing the analytes, and then placing the CGC in a DART source for analysis. CGCs are disposable and relatively inexpensive in comparison with SPME devices, and can be prepared with hydrophobic, hydrophilic or mixed-mode materials similar to SPME. CGCs were prepared by adsorption coating with incubation of capillaries in saturated solutions of octadecylamine or covalent activation of silanes. RESULTS Quantitation is shown with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) at 1 ppt to 100 ppb, with the lowest detection at 500 parts-per quadrillion (ppq) in tap water. One-step extraction of contaminated groundwater from Northern Queensland, Australia, revealed perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorohexanesulfonamide as well as C4-C8 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids. A soil sample taken near a former military air base (New Hampshire, USA) revealed the presence of perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) at 1 ppb and traces of perfluoroheptanoic acid. CONCLUSIONS CGC-DART enabled one-step extraction of PFASs in minutes with mL sample volumes at low concentrations as shown for the standards and contaminated soil and water samples. DART-MS combined with Kendrick mass defect analysis enabled accurate identification of PFASs without chromatography steps, as fluorinated compounds are mass deficient and easily distinguished over background signal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simin D Maleknia
- SDM Enterprises, Sydney, Australia
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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160
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Xie Y, Chen G, May AL, Yan J, Brown LP, Powers JB, Campagna SR, Löffler FE. Pseudomonas sp. Strain 273 Degrades Fluorinated Alkanes. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:14994-15003. [PMID: 33190477 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c04029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Fluorinated organic compounds have emerged as environmental constituents of concern. We demonstrate that the alkane degrader Pseudomonas sp. strain 273 utilizes terminally monofluorinated C7-C10 alkanes and 1,10-difluorodecane (DFD) as the sole carbon and energy sources in the presence of oxygen. Strain 273 degraded 1-fluorodecane (FD) (5.97 ± 0.22 mM, nominal) and DFD (5.62 ± 0.13 mM, nominal) within 7 days of incubation, and 92.7 ± 3.8 and 90.1 ± 1.9% of the theoretical maximum amounts of fluorine were recovered as inorganic fluoride, respectively. With n-decane, strain 273 attained (3.24 ± 0.14) × 107 cells per μmol of carbon consumed, while lower biomass yields of (2.48 ± 0.15) × 107 and (1.62 ± 0.23) × 107 cells were measured with FD or DFD as electron donors, respectively. The organism coupled decanol and decanoate oxidation to denitrification, but the utilization of (fluoro)alkanes was strictly oxygen-dependent, presumably because the initial attack on the terminal carbon requires oxygen. Fluorohexanoate was detected as an intermediate in cultures grown with FD or DFD, suggesting that the initial attack on the fluoroalkanes can occur on the terminal methyl or fluoromethyl groups. The findings indicate that specialized bacteria such as Pseudomonas sp. strain 273 can break carbon-fluorine bonds most likely with oxygenolytic enzyme systems and that terminally monofluorinated alkanes are susceptible to microbial degradation. The findings have implications for the fate of components associated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) mixtures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchao Xie
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Gao Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Amanda L May
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Jun Yan
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Lindsay P Brown
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Joshua B Powers
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Shawn R Campagna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Biological and Small Molecule Mass Spectrometry Core, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Frank E Löffler
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
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161
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Radjenovic J, Duinslaeger N, Avval SS, Chaplin BP. Facing the Challenge of Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Water: Is Electrochemical Oxidation the Answer? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:14815-14829. [PMID: 33191730 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical treatment systems have the unique ability to completely mineralize poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) through potential-driven electron transfer reactions. In this review, we discuss the state-of-the-art on electrooxidation of PFASs in water, aiming at elucidating the impact of different operational and design parameters, as well as reported mechanisms of PFAS degradation at the anode surface. We have identified several shortcomings of the existing studies that are largely limited to small-scale laboratory batch systems and unrealistic synthetic solutions, which makes extrapolation of the obtained data to real-world applications difficult. PFASs are surfactant molecules, which display significant concentration-dependence on adsorption, electrosorption, and dissociation. Electrooxidation experiments conducted with high initial PFAS concentration and/or in high conductivity supporting electrolytes likely overestimate process performance. In addition, the formation of organohalogen byproducts, chlorate and perchlorate, was seldom considered. Nevertheless, the first step toward advancing from laboratory-scale to industrial-scale applications is recognizing both the strengths and limitations of electrochemical water treatment systems. More comprehensive and rigorous evaluation of novel electrode materials, application of scalable proof-of-concept studies, and acknowledgment of all treatment outputs (not just the positive ones) are imperative. The presence of PFASs in drinking water and in the environment is an urgent global public health issue. Developments made in material science and application of novel three-dimensional, porous electrode materials and nanostructured coatings are forging a path toward more sustainable water treatment technologies and potential chemical-free treatment of PFAS-contaminated water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Radjenovic
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), c/Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Passeig Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nick Duinslaeger
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), c/Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain
- University of Girona, 17004 Girona, Spain
| | - Shirin Saffar Avval
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, United States
| | - Brian P Chaplin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, United States
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162
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Stoiber T, Evans S, Naidenko OV. Disposal of products and materials containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): A cyclical problem. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 260:127659. [PMID: 32698118 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), highly stable and persistent chemicals used in numerous industrial applications and consumer goods, pose an exceptionally difficult challenge for disposal. Three approaches are currently available for PFAS wastes: landfilling, wastewater treatment and incineration. Each disposal approach can return either the original PFAS or their degradation products back to the environment, illustrating that the PFAS problem is cyclical. Landfilling and wastewater treatment do not destroy PFAS and simply move PFAS loads between sites. Consumer products and various materials discarded in landfills leach PFAS over time, and landfill leachate is commonly sent to wastewater treatment plants. From wastewater treatment plants, PFAS are carried over to sludge and effluent. Sewage sludge can be landfilled, incinerated, or applied on agricultural fields, and PFAS from treated sludge (biosolids) can contaminate soil, water, and crops. Incineration of PFAS-containing wastes can emit harmful air pollutants, such as fluorinated greenhouse gases and products of incomplete combustion, and some PFAS may remain in the incinerator ash. Volatile PFAS are emitted into the air from landfills and wastewater treatment plants, and research is urgently needed on the potential presence of PFAS compounds in air emissions from commercially run incinerators. Monitoring of waste streams for PFAS, stopping PFAS discharges into water, soil and air and protecting the health of fence-line communities close to the waste disposal sites are essential to mitigate the impacts of PFAS pollution on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasha Stoiber
- Environmental Working Group, 1436 U Street NW Suite 100, Washington, DC, 20009, USA.
| | - Sydney Evans
- Environmental Working Group, 1436 U Street NW Suite 100, Washington, DC, 20009, USA.
| | - Olga V Naidenko
- Environmental Working Group, 1436 U Street NW Suite 100, Washington, DC, 20009, USA.
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163
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Heerah K, Waclawek S, Konzuk J, Longstaffe JG. Benchtop 19 F NMR spectroscopy as a practical tool for testing of remedial technologies for the degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid, a persistent organic pollutant. MAGNETIC RESONANCE IN CHEMISTRY : MRC 2020; 58:1160-1167. [PMID: 31997392 DOI: 10.1002/mrc.5005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The development of effective remedial technologies for the destruction of environmental pollutants requires the ability to clearly monitor degradation processes. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful tool for understanding reaction progress; however, practical considerations often restrict the application of NMR spectroscopy as a tool to better understand the degradation of environmental pollutants. Chief among these restrictions is the limited access smaller environmental research labs and remediation companies have to suitable NMR facilities. Benchtop NMR spectroscopy is a low-cost and user-friendly approach to acquire much of the same information as conventional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, albeit with reduced sensitivity and resolution. This paper explores the practical application of benchtop NMR spectroscopy to understand the degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid using sodium persulfate, a common reagent for the destruction of groundwater contaminants. It is found that Benchtop 19 F NMR spectroscopy is able to monitor the complete degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid into fluoride; however, the observation of intermediate degradation products formed, which can be observed using a conventional NMR spectrometer, cannot be readily distinguished from the parent compound when measurements are performed using the benchtop instrument. Under certain reaction conditions, the formation of fluorinated structures that are resistant to further degradation is readily observed. Overall, it is shown that benchtop 19 F NMR spectroscopy has potential as a quick and reliable tool to assist in the development of remedial technologies for the degradation of fluorinated contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavi Heerah
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Stanislaw Waclawek
- Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Julie Konzuk
- Geosyntec Consultants International, Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - James G Longstaffe
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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164
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Bottos EM, Al-Shabib EY, Shaw DMJ, McAmmond BM, Sharma A, Suchan DM, Cameron ADS, Van Hamme JD. Transcriptomic response of Gordonia sp. strain NB4-1Y when provided with 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamidoalkyl betaine or 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate as sole sulfur source. Biodegradation 2020; 31:407-422. [PMID: 33150552 PMCID: PMC7661421 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-020-09917-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Abstract Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are environmental contaminants of concern. We previously described biodegradation of two PFAS that represent components and transformation products of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamidoalkyl betaine (6:2 FTAB) and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTSA), by Gordonia sp. strain NB4-1Y. To identify genes involved in the breakdown of these compounds, the transcriptomic response of NB4-1Y was examined when grown on 6:2 FTAB, 6:2 FTSA, a non-fluorinated analog of 6:2 FTSA (1-octanesulfonate), or MgSO4, as sole sulfur source. Differentially expressed genes were identified as those with ± 1.5 log2-fold-differences (± 1.5 log2FD) in transcript abundances in pairwise comparisons. Transcriptomes of cells grown on 6:2 FTAB and 6:2 FTSA were most similar (7.9% of genes expressed ± 1.5 log2FD); however, several genes that were expressed in greater abundance in 6:2 FTAB treated cells compared to 6:2 FTSA treated cells were noted for their potential role in carbon–nitrogen bond cleavage in 6:2 FTAB. Responses to sulfur limitation were observed in 6:2 FTAB, 6:2 FTSA, and 1-octanesulfonate treatments, as 20 genes relating to global sulfate stress response were more highly expressed under these conditions compared to the MgSO4 treatment. More highly expressed oxygenase genes in 6:2 FTAB, 6:2 FTSA, and 1-octanesulfonate treatments were found to code for proteins with lower percent sulfur-containing amino acids compared to both the total proteome and to oxygenases showing decreased expression. This work identifies genetic targets for further characterization and will inform studies aimed at evaluating the biodegradation potential of environmental samples through applied genomics. Graphic Abstract ![]()
Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s10532-020-09917-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Bottos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 0C8, Canada
| | - Ebtihal Y Al-Shabib
- Department of Biology, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
- Faculty of Science, Institute for Microbial Systems and Society, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Dayton M J Shaw
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 0C8, Canada
| | - Breanne M McAmmond
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 0C8, Canada
| | - Aditi Sharma
- Department of Biology, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
- Faculty of Science, Institute for Microbial Systems and Society, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Danae M Suchan
- Department of Biology, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
- Faculty of Science, Institute for Microbial Systems and Society, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Andrew D S Cameron
- Department of Biology, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
- Faculty of Science, Institute for Microbial Systems and Society, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Jonathan D Van Hamme
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, V2C 0C8, Canada.
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165
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Meegoda JN, Kewalramani JA, Li B, Marsh RW. A Review of the Applications, Environmental Release, and Remediation Technologies of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8117. [PMID: 33153160 PMCID: PMC7663283 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are pollutants that have demonstrated a high level of environmental persistence and are very difficult to remediate. As the body of literature on their environmental effects has increased, so has regulatory and research scrutiny. The widespread usage of PFAS in industrial applications and consumer products, complicated by their environmental release, mobility, fate, and transport, have resulted in multiple exposure routes for humans. Furthermore, low screening levels and stringent regulatory standards that vary by state introduce considerable uncertainty and potential costs in the environmental management of PFAS. The recalcitrant nature of PFAS render their removal difficult, but existing and emerging technologies can be leveraged to destroy or sequester PFAS in a variety of environmental matrices. Additionally, new research on PFAS remediation technologies has emerged to address the efficiency, costs, and other shortcomings of existing remediation methods. Further research on the impact of field parameters such as secondary water quality effects, the presence of co-contaminants and emerging PFAS, reaction mechanisms, defluorination yields, and the decomposition products of treatment technologies is needed to fully evaluate these emerging technologies, and industry attention should focus on treatment train approaches to improve efficiency and reduce the cost of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay N. Meegoda
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA;
| | - Jitendra A. Kewalramani
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA;
| | - Brian Li
- Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA;
| | - Richard W. Marsh
- Department of Chemical and Material Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA;
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166
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Li F, Yang N, Yang Z, Cao W, Zhou Z, Liao X, Sun W, Yuan B. Biomimetic degradability of linear perfluorooctanesulfonate (L-PFOS): Degradation products and pathways. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 259:127502. [PMID: 32650169 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127502] [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: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The reductive degradability and decomposition pathways of linear perfluorooctanesulfonate (L-PFOS) were investigated in a biomimetic system consisting of Ti(III)-citrate and Vitamin B12. Biomimetic degradation of L-PFOS could well be described by a first-order exponential decay model. Accompanied by the release of fluoride ion, technical PFOS could not only be transformed to perfluorocarboxylates (PFCAs) and perfluoroalkylsulfonates (PFSAs) with perfluoroalkyl carbon chain length < C8 (thereafter referred as carbon-chain-shortened degradation products), but also be transformed to PFCAs with perfluoroalkyl carbon chain length ≥ C8 (thereafter referred as carbon-chain-lengthened degradation products). Perfluorohexanesulfonate and perfluorotetradecanoate were the most abundant carbon-chain-shortened and -lengthened degradation products of technical PFOS, respectively. Based on the various degradation products detected during biomimetic reduction of linear [1,2,3,4-13C4]-PFOS, the degradation pathways of L-PFOS were proposed as follows: L-PFOS was first reduced to C8F17• radical by cleavage of C-S bond, and then transformed to PFOA through hydrolysis. However, the carbon-chain-shortened products were not generated through the sequential chain-shortening via C8F17• radicals and/or L-PFOS, while the carbon-chain-lengthened products were not formed via C8F17• radicals by stepwise addition of CF2 moiety. In fact, C8F17• radical and/or L-PFOS were further reduced to form CnF2n+1• (n = 1, 2, 3, 4) radicals, and these radicals were chain-lengthened by stepwise addition of C4F8 moiety and eventually transformed to various degradation products via hydrolysis (PFCAs) or combination reaction with sulfonyl hydroxide (PFSAs). All carbon-chain-lengthened chemicals were first reported as the degradation products during the decomposition of L-PFOS, while carbon-chain-shortened compounds were first identified as the biomimetic reduction products of L-PFOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Li
- Xiamen Engineering & Technology Research Center for Urban Water Environment Planning and Remediation, College of Civil Engineering, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Xiamen Engineering & Technology Research Center for Urban Water Environment Planning and Remediation, College of Civil Engineering, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Zhimin Yang
- Analytical and Testing Center of Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Xiamen Engineering & Technology Research Center for Urban Water Environment Planning and Remediation, College of Civil Engineering, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Zhenming Zhou
- Xiamen Engineering & Technology Research Center for Urban Water Environment Planning and Remediation, College of Civil Engineering, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Xiaobin Liao
- Xiamen Engineering & Technology Research Center for Urban Water Environment Planning and Remediation, College of Civil Engineering, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Wenjie Sun
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, 75275, USA.
| | - Baoling Yuan
- Xiamen Engineering & Technology Research Center for Urban Water Environment Planning and Remediation, College of Civil Engineering, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, China.
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167
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James Wood R, Sidnell T, Ross I, McDonough J, Lee J, Bussemaker MJ. Ultrasonic degradation of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) correlated with sonochemical and sonoluminescence characterisation. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2020; 68:105196. [PMID: 32593965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2020.105196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Sonolysis has been proposed as a promising treatment technology to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) from contaminated water. The mechanism of degradation is generally accepted to be high temperature pyrolysis at the bubble surface with dependency upon surface reaction site availability. However, the parametric effects of the ultrasonic system on PFAS degradation are poorly understood, making upscale challenging and leading to less than optimal use of ultrasonic energy. Hence, a thorough understanding of these parametric effects could lead to improved efficiency and commercial viability. Here, reactor characterisation was performed at 44, 400, 500, and 1000 kHz using potassium iodide (KI) dosimetry, sonochemiluminescence (SCL), and sonoluminescence (SL) in water and a solution of potassium salt of PFOS (hereafter, K-PFOS). Then the degradation of K-PFOS (10 mg L-1 in 200 mL solution) was investigated at these four frequencies. At 44 kHz, no PFOS degradation was observed. At 400, 500, and 1000 kHz the amount of degradation was 96.9, 93.8, and 91.2%, respectively, over four hours and was accompanied by stoichiometric fluoride release, indicating mineralisation of the PFOS molecule. Close correlation of PFOS degradation trends with KI dosimetry and SCL intensity was observed, which suggested degradation occurred under similar conditions to these sonochemical processes. At 1000 kHz, where the overall intensity of collapse was significantly reduced (measured by SL), PFOS degradation was not similarly decreased. Discussion is presented that suggests a hydrated electron degradation mechanism for PFOS may occur in ultrasonic conditions. This mechanism is a novel hypothesis in the field of PFAS sonolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard James Wood
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Sidnell
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Ross
- ARCADIS, Global Remediation, 10th Floor, 3 Piccadilly Place, Manchester, Greater Manchester M1 3BN, United Kingdom
| | - Jeffrey McDonough
- ARCADIS US 630 Plaza Drive Suite 200 Highlands Ranch, CO 80129, United States
| | - Judy Lee
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom
| | - Madeleine J Bussemaker
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom.
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168
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Robey NM, da Silva BF, Annable MD, Townsend TG, Bowden JA. Concentrating Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Leachate Using Foam Separation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:12550-12559. [PMID: 32865409 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c01266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Large volumes of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-contaminated wastewaters, such as municipal solid waste landfill leachates, pose a challenge for PFAS treatment technologies in practice today. In this study, the surfactant properties of PFAS were exploited to concentrate the compounds in foam produced via the bubble aeration of landfill leachate. The effectiveness of the foaming technique for concentrating PFAS varied by compound, with a mean removal percentage (the percent difference between PFAS in leachate before and after foam removal) of 69% and a median removal percentage of 92% among the 10 replicate foaming experiments. This technique appears to be similarly effective at sequestering sulfonates and carboxylate PFAS compounds and is less effective at concentrating the smallest and largest PFAS molecules. The results of this study suggest that for the pretreatment or preconcentration of landfill leachates, foaming to sequester PFAS may provide a practical approach that could be strategically coupled to high-energy PFAS-destructive treatment technologies. The process described herein is simple and could feasibly be applied at a relatively low cost at most landfills, where leachate aeration is already commonplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Robey
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Bianca F da Silva
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Michael D Annable
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
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169
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Duchesne AL, Brown JK, Patch DJ, Major D, Weber KP, Gerhard JI. Remediation of PFAS-Contaminated Soil and Granular Activated Carbon by Smoldering Combustion. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:12631-12640. [PMID: 32822535 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This study explored smoldering combustion for remediating polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS)-impacted granular activated carbon (GAC) and PFAS-contaminated soil. GAC, both fresh and PFAS-loaded, was employed as the supplemental fuel supporting smoldering in mixtures with sand (≈175 mg PFAS/kg GAC-sand), with PFAS-spiked, laboratory-constructed soil (≈4 mg PFAS/kg soil), and with a PFAS-impacted field soil (≈0.2 mg PFAS/kg soil). The fate of PFAS and fluorine was quantified with soil and emission analyses, including targeted PFAS and suspect screening as well as hydrogen fluoride and total fluorine. Results demonstrated that exceeding 35 g GAC/kg soil resulted in self-sustained smoldering with temperatures exceeding 900 °C. Post-treatment PFAS concentrations of the treated soil were near (2 experiments) or below (7 experiments) detection limits (0.0004 mg/kg). Further, 44% of the initial PFAS on GAC underwent full destruction, compared to 16% of the PFAS on soil. Less than 1% of the initial PFAS contamination on GAC or soil was emitted as PFAS in the quantifiable analytical suite. Results suggest that the rest were emitted as altered, shorter-chain PFAS and volatile fluorinated compounds, which were scrubbed effectively with GAC. Total organic fluorine analysis proved useful for PFAS-loaded GAC in sand; however, analyzing soils suffered from interference from non-PFAS. Overall, this study demonstrated that smoldering has significant potential as an effective remediation technique for PFAS-impacted soils and PFAS-laden GAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L Duchesne
- University of Western Ontario, Spencer Engineering Building, London, Ontario N6A 5B9, Canada
| | - Joshua K Brown
- University of Western Ontario, Spencer Engineering Building, London, Ontario N6A 5B9, Canada
| | - David J Patch
- Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, Ontario K7K 7B4, Canada
| | - David Major
- Savron, 130 Stone Rd. W, Guelph, Ontario N1G 3Z2, Canada
| | - Kela P Weber
- Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, Ontario K7K 7B4, Canada
| | - Jason I Gerhard
- University of Western Ontario, Spencer Engineering Building, London, Ontario N6A 5B9, Canada
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170
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Roesch P, Vogel C, Simon FG. Reductive Defluorination and Mechanochemical Decomposition of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs): From Present Knowledge to Future Remediation Concepts. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7242. [PMID: 33023008 PMCID: PMC7578953 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17197242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have emerged as worldwide environmental contaminants, calling out for sophisticated treatment, decomposition and remediation strategies. In order to mineralize PFAS pollutants, the incineration of contaminated material is a state-of-the-art process, but more cost-effective and sustainable technologies are inevitable for the future. Within this review, various methods for the reductive defluorination of PFASs were inspected. In addition to this, the role of mechanochemistry is highlighted with regard to its major potential in reductive defluorination reactions and degradation of pollutants. In order to get a comprehensive understanding of the involved reactions, their mechanistic pathways are pointed out. Comparisons between existing PFAS decomposition reactions and reductive approaches are discussed in detail, regarding their applicability in possible remediation processes. This article provides a solid overview of the most recent research methods and offers guidelines for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Roesch
- Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM), Division 4.3 Contaminant Transfer and Environmental Technologies, Unter den Eichen 87, 12205 Berlin, Germany;
| | | | - Franz-Georg Simon
- Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM), Division 4.3 Contaminant Transfer and Environmental Technologies, Unter den Eichen 87, 12205 Berlin, Germany;
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171
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Liu F, Hua L, Zhang W. Influences of microwave irradiation on performances of membrane filtration and catalytic degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 143:105969. [PMID: 32702597 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), one of the common per- and poly fluorinated alkylated substances (PFASs), is increasingly detected in the environment due to the diverse industrial applications and high resistance to degradation processes. This study evaluated degradation of PFOA in microwave-assistant catalytic membrane filtration, a process that integrates microwave catalytic reactions into a ceramic membrane filtration. First, water permeation of the pristine and catalyst-coated membranes were examined under the influence of microwave irradiation to analyse the impacts of the coating layer and water temperature increase on permeate flux, which were well interpreted by the Carman-Kozeny and Hagen-Posieulle (non-slipping and slit-like) models. Then, the PFOA removal was first assessed in a continuous filtration mode with and without microwave irradiation. Our results show that PFOA first adsorbed on membrane and catalyst materials, and then fully penetrated the membrane filter after reaching adsorption equilibrium. Under microwave irradiation (7.2 W·cm-2), approximate 65.9% of PFOA (25 μg·L-1) in the feed solution was degraded within a hydraulic time of 2 min (at the permeate flow rate of 43 LMH) due to the microwave-Fenton like reactions. In addition, low flow rates and moderate catalyst coating densities are critical for optimizing PFOA removal. Finally, potential degradation mechanisms of PFOA were proposed through the analysis of degradation by-products (e.g., PFPeA). The findings may provide new insight into the development of reactive membrane-enabled systems for destruction of refractory PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangzhou Liu
- John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Martin Luther King Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102, United States
| | - Likun Hua
- John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Martin Luther King Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102, United States; BRISEA Group Inc., 239 New Road, Bldg. A Suite 315, Parsippany, NJ 07054, United States
| | - Wen Zhang
- John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Martin Luther King Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102, United States.
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172
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Yan B, Munoz G, Sauvé S, Liu J. Molecular mechanisms of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on a modified clay: a combined experimental and molecular simulation study. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 184:116166. [PMID: 32698092 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Repeated application of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) in designated firefighting training areas has caused severe groundwater contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). Many research efforts are currently engaged for the effective removal of these chemicals from environmental waters. In this study, we demonstrate that modified clay produced by intercalating quaternary ammonium cations in the exchangeable interlayer sites of smectite clay can effectively remove PFAS pollutants in real groundwater via strong adsorption. The performance of the modified clay (with removal efficiencies 95~99%) is superior to those of granular activated carbon or hard-wood biochar and comparable to an ion exchange resin. Removal efficiency is not impacted by potential organic co-contaminants (e.g., diesel, BTEX, TCE, and 1,4 dioxane) or water chemistry (Ca2+ and Na+) at environmentally relevant concentrations. Furthermore, piecewise isotherms are identified to represent the uptake of PFASs by the modified clay. Based on molecular dynamics simulations, the anionic PFASs first occupy the highly polarized bare interlayer edge sites leading to a linear isotherm and then the interlayer surface sites resulting in a Langmuir isotherm. The ionic interactions between the cationic intercalant (N+) and the terminal oxygen atoms of carboxylate or sulfonate groups of PFASs play a dominant role in adsorption, and the lateral interaction in particular fluorophilic attraction among PFASs accelerate the adsorption. The strength of these interactions is quantified using Density Functional Theory calculations. Simulation results match reasonably well with the experimentally determined basal spacing and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of the modified clay loaded with PFASs. Overall, the combined experimental and molecular simulation studies elucidate the adsorption mechanism of PFASs on the modified clay and provide critical information to guide the use of modified clays for PFAS water treatment in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Yan
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C3, Canada
| | - Gabriel Munoz
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Sébastien Sauvé
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Jinxia Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C3, Canada.
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173
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Wang X, Yu N, Qian Y, Shi W, Zhang X, Geng J, Yu H, Wei S. Non-target and suspect screening of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in Chinese municipal wastewater treatment plants. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 183:115989. [PMID: 32623239 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.115989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is one of the major sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) to the aquatic environment. In this study, wastewater samples were collected from 17 WWTPs in 17 cities of China to investigate emerging PFASs in WWTPs. To comprehensively identify PFASs in the wastewater samples, an integrated suspect screening, homologue-based and fragment-based non-target screening method is proposed. Sixty-three PFASs from 13 classes (25 subclasses) were identified, including 14 legacy and 49 emerging PFASs, and this study is the first to report on 12 of these PFASs. We found that emerging PFASs concentration had a significantly positive correlation with the gross domestic product, indicating more substitution of legacy PFASs in the developed area of China. We also analyzed the removal of the 13 PFAS classes, and found that all discovered PFAS classes were not completely removed after the treatment process, whereas the class of perfluoroalkyl ether alcohols significantly increased. All of these results imply that the release of emerging or unknown PFASs from WWTPs is a universal but not negligible problem in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuebing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Nanyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuli Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinju Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongxia Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Si Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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174
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Bertanza G, Capoferri GU, Carmagnani M, Icarelli F, Sorlini S, Pedrazzani R. Long-term investigation on the removal of perfluoroalkyl substances in a full-scale drinking water treatment plant in the Veneto Region, Italy. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 734:139154. [PMID: 32464392 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Drinking water contamination by perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) is an issue of relatively recent concern. The literature indicates that anion exchange resins and granular activated carbon (GAC) are suitable technologies for removing these compounds. While several laboratory-scale and pilot-scale experiments have been conducted to study activated carbon adsorption/desorption mechanisms of a number of PFASs, little data on full-scale plants are available. This work examines a real case of groundwater contamination by PFASs in an area of approximately 200 km2. The performance of the main drinking water treatment plant in the area (flowrate = 30,000 m3/d; 100,000 people served), which is equipped with GAC filters, was analysed. Approximately 17,000 analytical data points from a working period of five years were processed. Perfluorobutyric acid (PFBA) was the first compound to attain breakthrough, followed by perfluoropentanoic acid, perfluorohexanoic acid, perfluorobutanesulfonic acid, and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The adsorption capacity and treated bed volumes at complete breakthrough (saturation) were calculated, and ranged from 1.71 g/t and 7100 (PFBA) to 24.6 g/t and 50,900 (PFOA), with the total organic carbon concentration in the groundwater ranging from <0.1 to 0.5 mg/L. The overall adsorption capacity was approximately 40 g of total PFASs/t. The breakthrough behaviour of PFASs was correlated with the CF chain length, the type of hydrophilic head (either carboxyl or sulfonic), and the n-octanol/water partition coefficients logP and logD. The results corroborate the findings of previously published bench-scale and pilot-scale experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Bertanza
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 43, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Umberto Capoferri
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 43, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | - Sabrina Sorlini
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 43, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberta Pedrazzani
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
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175
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Kwiatkowski CF, Andrews DQ, Birnbaum LS, Bruton TA, DeWitt JC, Knappe DRU, Maffini MV, Miller MF, Pelch KE, Reade A, Soehl A, Trier X, Venier M, Wagner CC, Wang Z, Blum A. Scientific Basis for Managing PFAS as a Chemical Class. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2020; 7:532-543. [PMID: 34307722 PMCID: PMC8297807 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.0c00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
This commentary presents a scientific basis for managing as one chemical class the thousands of chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The class includes perfluoroalkyl acids, perfluoroalkylether acids, and their precursors; fluoropolymers and perfluoropolyethers; and other PFAS. The basis for the class approach is presented in relation to their physicochemical, environmental, and toxicological properties. Specifically, the high persistence, accumulation potential, and/or hazards (known and potential) of PFAS studied to date warrant treating all PFAS as a single class. Examples are provided of how some PFAS are being regulated and how some businesses are avoiding all PFAS in their products and purchasing decisions. We conclude with options for how governments and industry can apply the class-based approach, emphasizing the importance of eliminating non-essential uses of PFAS, and further developing safer alternatives and methods to remove existing PFAS from the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol F. Kwiatkowski
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - David Q. Andrews
- Environmental Working Group, Washington, D.C. 20009, United States
| | - Linda S. Birnbaum
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Thomas A. Bruton
- Green Science Policy Institute, Berkeley, California 94709, United States
| | - Jamie C. DeWitt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27834, United States
| | - Detlef R. U. Knappe
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | | | - Mark F. Miller
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and U.S. Public Health Service, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Katherine E. Pelch
- School of Public Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76126, United States
| | - Anna Reade
- Natural Resources Defense Council, San Francisco, California 94104, United States
| | - Anna Soehl
- Green Science Policy Institute, Berkeley, California 94709, United States
| | - Xenia Trier
- European Environment Agency, DK-1050 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marta Venier
- O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47401, United States
| | - Charlotte C. Wagner
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Zhanyun Wang
- Chair of Ecological Systems Design, Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Arlene Blum
- Green Science Policy Institute, Berkeley, California 94709, United States; Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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176
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Zhang W, Efstathiadis H, Li L, Liang Y. Environmental factors affecting degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) by In 2O 3 nanoparticles. J Environ Sci (China) 2020; 93:48-56. [PMID: 32446459 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2020.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Nanophotocatalysts have shown great potential for degrading poly- and perfluorinated substances (PFAS). In light of the fact that most of these catalysts were studied in pure water, this study was designed to elucidate effects from common environmental factors on decomposing and defluorinating perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) by In2O3 nanoparticles. Results from this work demonstrated that among the seven parameters, pH, sulfate, chloride, H2O2, In2O3 dose, NOM and O2, the first four had statistically significant negative effects on PFOA degradation. Since PFOA is a strong acid, the best condition leading to the highest PFOA removal was identified for two pH ranges. When pH was between 4 and 8, the optimal condition was: pH = 4.2; sulfate = 5.00 mg/L; chloride = 20.43 mg/L; H2O2 = 0 mmol/L. Under this condition, PFOA decomposition and defluorination were 55.22 and 23.56%, respectively. When pH was between 2 and 6, the optimal condition was: pH = 2; sulfate = 5.00 mg/L; chloride = 27.31 mg/L; H2O2 = 0 mmol/L. With this condition, the modeled PFOA decomposition was 97.59% with a defluorination of approximately 100%. These predicted results were all confirmed by experimental data. Thus, In2O3 nanoparticles can be used for degrading PFOA in aqueous solutions. This approach works best when the target contaminated water contains low concentrations of NOM, sulfate and chloride and at a low pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilan Zhang
- Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Harry Efstathiadis
- Department of Nanoengineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany, NY 12203, USA
| | - Lingyun Li
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY 12237, USA
| | - Yanna Liang
- Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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177
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Sörengård M, Lindh AS, Ahrens L. Thermal desorption as a high removal remediation technique for soils contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234476. [PMID: 32584848 PMCID: PMC7316335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Soils contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are an important source for impacting drinking water delivery systems and surface water bodies world-wide, posing an urgent risk to human health and environmental quality. However, few treatment techniques have been tested for PFAS-contaminated soil hotspots. This study investigated the possibility of thermal desorption as a possible technique to remediate soils contaminated with multiple PFASs. Two fortified soils (∑9PFAS ≈ 4 mg kg-1) and one field-contaminated soil (∑9PFAS ≈ 0.025 mg kg-1) were subjected to a 75-min thermal treatment at temperatures ranging from 150 to 550°C. Soil concentrations of PFASs showed a significant decrease at 350°C, with the ∑9PFAS concentration decreasing by, on average, 43% and 79% in the fortified and field contaminated soils, respectively. At 450°C, >99% of PFASs were removed from the fortified soils, while at 550°C the fraction removed ranged between 71 and 99% for the field contaminated soil. In the field contaminated soil, PFAS classes with functional groups of sulfonates (PFSAs) and sulfonamides (FOSAs) showed higher removal than the perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs). Thus thermal desorption has the potential to remove a wide variety of PFASs from soil, although more studies are needed to investigate the cost-effectiveness, creation of transformation products, and air-phase vacuum filtration techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Sörengård
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - A-S. Lindh
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - L. Ahrens
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
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178
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McGregor R. Six pilot‐scale studies evaluating the in situ treatment of PFAS in groundwater. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/rem.21653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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179
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Liu C, Hatton J, Arnold WA, Simcik MF, Pennell KD. In Situ Sequestration of Perfluoroalkyl Substances Using Polymer-Stabilized Powdered Activated Carbon. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:6929-6936. [PMID: 32379438 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c00155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Remediation of groundwater impacted by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is particularly challenging due to the resistance of the molecule to oxidation because of the strength of the carbon-fluorine bond and the need to achieve low nanogram per liter drinking water targets. Previous studies have shown that activated carbon is an effective sorbent for removal of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) in conventional water treatment systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in situ delivery and sorptive capacity of an aqueous suspension containing powdered activated carbon (PAC) stabilized with polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (polyDADMAC). Batch reactor studies demonstrated substantial adsorption of PFOA and PFOS by polyDADMAC-stabilized PAC, which yielded Freundlich adsorption coefficients of 156 and 629 L/g-n, respectively. In columns packed with 40-50 mesh Ottawa sand, injection of a PAC (1000 mg/L) + polyDADMAC (5000 mg/L) suspension created a sorptive region that increased subsequent PFOA and PFOS retention by 3 orders of magnitude relative to untreated control columns, consistent with the mass of retained PAC. Experiments conducted in a heterogeneous aquifer cell further demonstrated the potential for stabilized-PAC to be an effective in situ treatment option for PFAS-impacted groundwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liu
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - James Hatton
- Jacobs Engineering Group, Incorporated, Englewood, Colorado 80112, United States
| | - William A Arnold
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, 500 Pillsbury Drive SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Matt F Simcik
- School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Kurt D Pennell
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
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180
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Askeland M, Clarke BO, Cheema SA, Mendez A, Gasco G, Paz-Ferreiro J. Biochar sorption of PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS and PFHxA in two soils with contrasting texture. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 249:126072. [PMID: 32045751 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The ability to immobilise PFAS in soil may be an essential interim tool while technologies are developed for effective long-term treatment of PFAS contaminated soils. Serial sorption experiments were undertaken using a pine derived biochar produced at 750 °C (P750). All experiments were carried out either in individual mode (solution with one PFAS at 5 μg/L) or mix mode (solution with 5 μg/L of each: PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS and PFHxA), and carried out in 2:1 water to soil solutions. Soils had biochar added in the range 0-5% w/w. Kinetic data were fitted to the pseudo-second order model for both amended soils, with equilibrium times ranging 0.5-96 h for all congeners. PFOS sorption was 11.1 ± 4.5% in the loamy sand compared to 69.8 ± 4.9% in the sandy clay loam. While total sorption was higher in the unamended loamy sand than sandy clay loam for PFHxA, PFOA and PFOS, the effect of biochar amendment for each compound was found to be significantly higher in amended sandy clay loam than in amended loamy sand. Application of biochar reduced the desorbed PFAS fraction of all soils. Soil type and experimental mode played a significant role in influencing desorption. Overall, the relationship between sorbent and congener was demonstrated to be highly impacted by soil type, however the unique physiochemical properties of each PFAS congener greatly influenced its unique equilibrium, sorption and desorption behaviour for each amended soil and mode tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Askeland
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Sardar Alam Cheema
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Ana Mendez
- Department of Geological and Mining Engineering, Technical University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriel Gasco
- Department of Agricultural Production, Technical University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040, Madrid, Spain
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181
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Li BB, Hu LX, Yang YY, Wang TT, Liu C, Ying GG. Contamination profiles and health risks of PFASs in groundwater of the Maozhou River basin. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 260:113996. [PMID: 31991359 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.113996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of chemicals with a wide range of industrial and commercial applications, but little is known about the contamination of PFASs in groundwater and their linkage to surface water. Here we investigated the occurrence of PFASs in groundwater and surface water at the Maozhou River basin in order to understand their contamination profiles and potential health risks. The results showed that total PFASs concentrations ranged from 9.9 to 592.2 ng/L, 50.2-339.9 ng/L and 3.7-74.3 ng/g in groundwater, river water and sediment, respectively. The detection frequencies of C4-C8 chains (C4-C8) PFASs were higher than C9-C14 chains PFASs in the river and groundwater. Statistical analysis showed an obvious correlation between the major contaminants in the river and those in the groundwater, indicating the potential linkage of PFASs in the groundwater to the surface water. The wastewater indicator found in groundwater suggested domestic wastewater was only one of the source for the PFASs in the river and groundwater of Maozhou River basin. Moreover, human health risk assessment showed low risks from the PFASs to the residents by drinking groundwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei-Bei Li
- 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
| | - Yuan-Yuan Yang
- 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
| | - Tuan-Tuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, CAS Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment Pollution and Control, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Chongxuan Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, 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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182
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Williams T, Walsh C, Murray K, Subir M. Interactions of emerging contaminants with model colloidal microplastics, C 60 fullerene, and natural organic matter - effect of surface functional group and adsorbate properties. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2020; 22:1190-1200. [PMID: 32250376 DOI: 10.1039/d0em00026d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Surface adsorption of two commonly detected emerging contaminants, amlodipine (AMP) and carbamazepine (CBZ), onto model colloidal microplastics, natural organic matter (NOM), and fullerene nanomaterials have been investigated. It is found that AMP accumulation at these colloidal-aqueous interfaces is markedly higher than that of CBZ. Measurements of surface excess and particle zeta potential, along with pH-dependent adsorption studies, reveal a distinct influence of colloidal functional group on the adsorption properties of these pharmaceuticals. AMP shows a clear preference for a surface containing carboxylic group compared to an amine modified surface. CBZ, in contrast, exhibit a pH-dependent surface proclivity for both of these microparticles. The type of interactions and molecular differences with respect to structural rigidity and charge properties explain these observed behaviors. In this work, we also demonstrate a facile approach in fabricating uniform microspheres coated with NOM and C60 nanoclusters. Subsequent binding studies on these surfaces show considerable adsorption on the NOM surface but a minimal uptake of CBZ by C60. Adsorption induced colloidal aggregation was not observed. These findings map out the extent of contaminant removal by colloids of different surface properties available in the aquatic environment. The methodology developed for the adsorption study also opens up the possibility for further investigations into colloidal-contaminant interactions.
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183
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael S. Wong
- Department of Chemical and
Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, MS-362, 6100 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering
Research Center Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, Rice University, MS-6398, 6100 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
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184
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Kumarasamy E, Manning IM, Collins LB, Coronell O, Leibfarth FA. Ionic Fluorogels for Remediation of Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances from Water. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2020; 6:487-492. [PMID: 32341998 PMCID: PMC7181326 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.9b01224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) contaminate groundwater, surface water, and finished drinking water internationally. Their ecological persistence and adverse human health effects demand effective remediation approaches. Motivated by the limitations in selectivity and performance of current PFAS removal technologies, we report a platform approach for the development of ionic fluorogel resins that effectively remove a chemically diverse mixture of PFAS from water. The synthesis of a material library with systematic variation in fluorous and ionic components led to the identification of a resin that demonstrated rapid removal of PFASs with high affinity and selectivity in the presence of nonfluorous contaminants commonly found in groundwater. The material can be regenerated and reused multiple times. We demonstrate ionic fluorogels as effective adsorbents for the removal of 21 legacy and emerging PFASs from settled water collected at the Sweeney Water Treatment Plant in Wilmington, North Carolina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elango Kumarasamy
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Irene M. Manning
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Leonard B. Collins
- Department
of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Orlando Coronell
- Department
of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Frank A. Leibfarth
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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185
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Gagliano E, Sgroi M, Falciglia PP, Vagliasindi FGA, Roccaro P. Removal of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water by adsorption: Role of PFAS chain length, effect of organic matter and challenges in adsorbent regeneration. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 171:115381. [PMID: 31923761 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2019.115381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 326] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a wide group of environmentally persistent organic compounds of industrial origin, which are of great concern due to their harmful impact on human health and ecosystems. Amongst long-chain PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) are the most detected in the aquatic environment, even though their use has been limited by recent regulations. Recently, more attention has been posed on the short-chain compounds, due to their use as an alternative to long-chain ones, and to their high mobility in the water bodies. Therefore, short-chain PFAS have been increasingly detected in the environmental compartments. The main process investigated and implemented for PFAS removal is adsorption. However, to date, most adsorption studies have focused on synthetic water. The main objective of this article is to provide a critical review of the recent peer-reviewed studies on the removal of long- and short-chain PFAS by adsorption. Specific objectives are to review 1) the performance of different adsorbents for both long- and short-chain PFAS, 2) the effect of organic matter, and 3) the adsorbent regeneration techniques. Strong anion-exchange resins seem to better remove both long- and short-chain PFAS. However, the adsorption capacity of short-chain PFAS is lower than that observed for long-chain PFAS. Therefore, short-chain PFAS removal is more challenging. Furthermore, the effect of organic matter on PFAS adsorption in water or wastewater under real environmental conditions is overlooked. In most studies high PFAS levels have been often investigated without organic matter presence. The rapid breakthrough of PFAS is also a limiting factor and the regeneration of PFAS exhausted adsorbents is very challenging and needs more research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Gagliano
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Sgroi
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - Pietro P Falciglia
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - Federico G A Vagliasindi
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - Paolo Roccaro
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy.
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186
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Sharma N, Barion G, Shrestha I, Ebinezer LB, Trentin AR, Vamerali T, Mezzalira G, Masi A, Ghisi R. Accumulation and effects of perfluoroalkyl substances in three hydroponically grown Salix L. species. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2020; 191:110150. [PMID: 31951898 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.110150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The potential of young rooted cuttings of three Salix L. species plants to accumulate a mixture of eleven perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), in particular, perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), from the nutrient solution and their effects on plant growth and photosynthesis were assessed in an 8-day experiment. The growth rate of the willow plants exposed to the PFAA mixture was not much affected except for S. triandra. Regarding photosynthesis, the gas exchange parameters were affected more than those related to chlorophyll fluorescence, with significant increase of the net CO2 assimilation rate and parameters related to stomatal conductance. A decreasing trend in the PFAA concentration in leaves with increasing carbon chain length was observed, whereas long-chain PFAAs showed higher concentrations in roots. Accordingly, the foliage to root concentration factor highlighted that PFAAs with shorter carbon chain length (C ≤ 7) translocated and accumulated relatively more in leaves compared to roots. Removal efficiency of individual PFAAs for leaves and roots were comparatively higher with S. eleagnos and S. purpurea than S. triandra, with mean removal values at the whole plant level ranging around 10% of the amount initially spiked, suggesting their potential for phytoremediation of PFASs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Sharma
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Barion
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy
| | - Inisa Shrestha
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy
| | - Leonard Barnabas Ebinezer
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy.
| | - Anna Rita Trentin
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy
| | - Teofilo Vamerali
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Masi
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy
| | - Rossella Ghisi
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Italy
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187
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Mahinroosta R, Senevirathna L. A review of the emerging treatment technologies for PFAS contaminated soils. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 255:109896. [PMID: 32063301 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Contamination of soils with poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has become a challenging issue due to the adverse effects of these substances on both the environment and public health. PFAS have strong chemical structures and their bonding with soil makes them challenging to eliminate from soil environments. Traditional methods of soil remediation have not been successful in their reduction or removal from the environment. This paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of existing and emerging technologies for remediating PFAS contaminated soils with guidance on which approach to use in different contexts. The functions of all remediation technologies, their suitability, limitations, and the scale applied from laboratory to the field are presented as a baseline for understanding the research need for treatment in soil environments. To date, the immobilization method has been a significant part of the remediation solution for PFAS contaminated soils, although its long-term efficiency still needs further investigation. Soil washing and thermal treatment techniques have been tested at the field scale, but they are expensive and energy-intensive due to the use of a large volume of washing solvent and the high melting point of PFAS, respectively; both methods need a large initial investment for their installation. Other remediation technologies, such as chemical oxidation, ball milling, and electron beams, have been progressed in the laboratory. However, additional research is needed to make them feasible, cost-effective and applicable in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Mahinroosta
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, Charles Sturt University, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Lalantha Senevirathna
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, Charles Sturt University, New South Wales, Australia.
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188
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Fulong CRP, Guardian MGE, Aga DS, Cook TR. A Self-Assembled Iron(II) Metallacage as a Trap for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Water. Inorg Chem 2020; 59:6697-6708. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.9b03405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cressa Ria P. Fulong
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14260, United States
| | - Mary Grace E. Guardian
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14260, United States
| | - Diana S. Aga
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14260, United States
| | - Timothy R. Cook
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14260, United States
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189
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Khan MY, So S, da Silva G. Decomposition kinetics of perfluorinated sulfonic acids. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 238:124615. [PMID: 31454742 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.124615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a widespread and persistent pollutant of concern to human health and the environment. Although incineration is often used to treat material contaminated with PFOS and related per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), little is known about the precise chemical mechanism for the thermal decomposition of these substances of concern. Here, we present the first study of the thermal decomposition kinetics of PFOS and related perfluorinated acids, using computational chemistry and reaction rate theory methods. We discover that the preferred channel for PFOS decomposition is via an α-sultone that spontaneously decomposes to form perfluorooctanal and SO2. At 1000 K the halflife for PFOS is predicted to be 0.2 s, decreasing sharply as temperature increases further. These results show that the acid headgroup in PFOS can be efficiently destroyed in incinerators operating at relatively modest temperatures. The new insights provided into the exact decomposition mechanism and kinetics of PFOS will help to improve remediation technologies actively under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Yasir Khan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Sui So
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Gabriel da Silva
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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190
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Kim Lazcano R, de Perre C, Mashtare ML, Lee LS. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in commercially available biosolid-based products: The effect of treatment processes. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2019; 91:1669-1677. [PMID: 31260167 DOI: 10.1002/wer.1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used in a variety of consumer and industrial products and are known to accumulate in sewage sludge due to sorption and their recalcitrant nature. Treatment processes ensure safe and high-quality biosolids by reducing the potential for adverse environmental impacts such as pathogen levels; however, they have yet to be evaluated for their impact on the fate of PFAS. The objective of this study was to compare PFAS concentrations in four commercially available biosolid-based products that received different types of treatments: heat treatment, composting, blending, and thermal hydrolysis. Seventeen perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) were quantified using liquid chromatography with tandem quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry followed by screening for 30 PFAA precursors. Treatment processes did not reduce PFAA loads except for blending, which served only to dilute concentrations. Several PFAA precursors were identified with 6:2 and 8:2 fluorotelomer phosphate diesters in all samples pre- and post-treatment. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Heat treatment and composting increased perfluoroalkyl acid (PFAA) concentrations. Only dilution from blending with non-PFAS material decreased PFAA concentrations. Thermal hydrolysis process had no apparent effect on PFAA concentrations. PFAS sources are a greater driver of PFAS loads in biosolid-based products than treatment processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rooney Kim Lazcano
- Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Ecological Sciences & Engineering, Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Chloé de Perre
- Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Michael L Mashtare
- Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Ecological Sciences & Engineering, Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Environmental & Ecological Engineering, College of Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Linda S Lee
- Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Ecological Sciences & Engineering, Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Environmental & Ecological Engineering, College of Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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191
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High-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) methods for nontarget discovery and characterization of poly- and per-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in environmental and human samples. Trends Analyt Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2019.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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192
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Li P, Zhi D, Zhang X, Zhu H, Li Z, Peng Y, He Y, Luo L, Rong X, Zhou Y. Research progress on the removal of hazardous perfluorochemicals: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2019; 250:109488. [PMID: 31499465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorinated substances are global and ubiquitous pollutants. The persistent organic pollution of perfluorochemicals (PFCs) have drawn attentions worldwide. In view of the current need for sustainable development, many researchers began to study the remediation techniques for PFCs. Due to its unique hydrophobic and oil-phobic characteristics, the requirements for the PFCs removal process are different, so that their remediation techniques are still under continuous exploration. Hence, this review summarized the removal behaviors of various PFCs on different materials which supply a good foundation for future investigations in this field. It is evident from previous literature that every remediation techniques for PFCs has its own advantages. Among various currently evaluated removal methods, adsorption seems to be one of the most commonly used and recognized techniques for PFCs pollution control. Other innovative and promising techniques, such as physical and/or chemical methods, have also been tested for their effectiveness in removing perfluorinated compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Li
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Dan Zhi
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Hongmei Zhu
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China.
| | - Zhiyong Li
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Yutao Peng
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yangzhou He
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Lin Luo
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Xiangmin Rong
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Yaoyu Zhou
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China.
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193
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Sorengard M, Kleja DB, Ahrens L. Stabilization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) with colloidal activated carbon (PlumeStop®) as a function of soil clay and organic matter content. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2019; 249:109345. [PMID: 31487666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The global problem of contamination of drinking water sources and the aquatic environment with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) originating from highly contaminated soils is addressed in this study. For the first time, a colloidal activated carbon (AC) product (PlumeStop®) was systematically assessed for PFASs stabilization in soil. Colloidal (particle size 0.1-1.1 μm) AC has the advantage that field application is non-intrusive, comprising injection under high pressure in situ at PFAS-contaminated soil hotspots. In the assessment, 10 different soil mixtures with gradually increasing organic carbon and clay fractions were spiked with 18 different PFASs of varying perfluorocarbon chain length and four different functional groups and aged for one year. Equilibrium leaching tests showed that the ability of colloidal AC to increase sorption of PFASs to soil was highly dependent on PFAS perfluorocarbon chain length. The best treatment efficiency was observed for perfluorocarbon chain lengths 6-7 at which colloidal AC resulted in sorption of 81%, 85%, and 86% for perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTSA) and perfluorohexane sulfonate, (PFHxS), respectively. Sorption of individual PFASs decreased significantly (p < 0.05) with increasing organic carbon content in soil treated with colloidal AC indicating stearic hindrance of the ACs pore structure. On the other hand, the sorption of the majority of PFASs increased significantly (p < 0.05) with increasing clay content in colloidal AC-treated soil, which can be explained by increase in surface area that colloidal AC can sorb to. Overall, the results indicate that the colloidal AC product tested can be useful in remediation approaches for certain PFASs under specific field conditions and PFAS contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sorengard
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Dan Berggren Kleja
- Swedish Geotechnical Institute, Kornhamnstorg 61, Stockholm, 111 27 , Sweden
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
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194
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Soriano Á, Gorri D, Biegler LT, Urtiaga A. An optimization model for the treatment of perfluorocarboxylic acids considering membrane preconcentration and BDD electrooxidation. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 164:114954. [PMID: 31404904 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2019.114954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Treatment of persistent perfluorocarboxylic acids in water matrixes requires of strong oxidation conditions, as those achieved by boron doped diamond (BDD) electrooxidation (ELOX). However, large scale implementation of ELOX is still hindered by its high energy consumption and economical investment. In this work, we used process systems engineering tools to define the optimal integration of a membrane pre-concentration stage followed by the BDD electrolysis of the concentrate, to drastically reduce the costs of treatment of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA, 100 mg L-1) in industrial waste streams. A multistage membrane cascade system using nanofiltration (NF90 and NF270 membranes) was considered to achieve more sophisticated PFHxA separations. The aim was to minimize the total costs by determining the optimal sizing of the two integrated processes (membrane area per stage and anode area) and the optimal process variables (pre-concentration operating time, electrolysis time, input and output concentrations). The non-linear programming model (NLP) was implemented in the General Algebraic Modelling System (GAMS). The results showed that for a 2-log PFHxA abatement (99% removal), the optimal two membrane stages using the NF90 membrane obtains a 75.8% (6.4 $ m-3) reduction of the total costs, compared to the ELOX alone scenario (26.5 $ m-3). The optimized anode area and the energy savings, that were 85.3% and 88.2% lower than in ELOX alone, were the major contributions to the costs reduction. Similar results were achieved for a 3-log and 4-log PFHxA abatement, pointing out the promising benefits of integrating electrochemical oxidation with membrane pre-concentration through proper optimization for its large-scale application to waters impacted by perfluorocarboxylic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Soriano
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Cantabria, Av. de Los Castros s/n, 39005, Santander, Spain
| | - Daniel Gorri
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Cantabria, Av. de Los Castros s/n, 39005, Santander, Spain
| | - Lorenz T Biegler
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie-Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213-3890, USA
| | - Ane Urtiaga
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Cantabria, Av. de Los Castros s/n, 39005, Santander, Spain.
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195
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Su Y, Rao U, Khor CM, Jensen MG, Teesch LM, Wong BM, Cwiertny DM, Jassby D. Potential-Driven Electron Transfer Lowers the Dissociation Energy of the C-F Bond and Facilitates Reductive Defluorination of Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS). ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:33913-33922. [PMID: 31436952 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b10449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The widespread environmental occurrence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has attracted significant regulatory, research, and media attention because of their toxicity, recalcitrance, and ability to bioaccumulate. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a particularly troublesome member of the PFAS family due to its immunity to biological remediation and radical-based oxidation. In the present study, we present a heterogeneous reductive degradation process that couples direct electron transfer (ET) from surface-modified carbon nanotube electrodes (under low potential conditions) to sorbed PFOS molecules using UV-generated hydrated electrons without any further chemical addition. We demonstrate that the ET process dramatically increases the PFOS defluorination rate while yielding shorter chain (C3-C7) perfluorinated acids and present both experimental and ab initio evidence of the synergistic relationship between electron addition to sorbed molecules and their ability to react with reductive hydrated electrons. Because of the low energy consumption associated with the ET process, the use of standard medium-pressure UV lamps and no further chemical addition, this reductive degradation process is a promising method for the destruction of persistent organic pollutants, including PFAS and other recalcitrant halogenated organic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Su
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , University of California , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Unnati Rao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , University of California , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Chia Miang Khor
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , University of California , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | | | | | - Bryan M Wong
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering , University of California , Riverside , California 92521 , United States
| | | | - David Jassby
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , University of California , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
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196
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Crownover E, Oberle D, Kluger M, Heron G. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances thermal desorption evaluation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/rem.21623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gorm Heron
- TRS Group, Inc.Lyndeborough New Hampshire
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197
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Risks of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) for Sustainable Water Recycling via Aquifers. WATER 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/w11081737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The prediction of the fate of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water recycling with urban stormwater and treated wastewater is important since PFAS are widely used, persistent, and have potential impacts on human health and the environment. These alternative water sources have been utilized for water recycling via aquifers or managed aquifer recharge (MAR). However, the fate of these chemicals in MAR schemes and the potential impact in terms of regulation have not been studied. PFAS can potentially be transported long distances in the subsurface during MAR. This article reviews the potential risks to MAR systems using recycled water and urban stormwater. To date, there are insufficient data to determine if PFAS can be degraded by natural processes or retained in the aquifer and become suitable pre-treatment or post-treatment technologies that will need to be employed depending upon the end use of the recovered water. The use of engineered pre-treatment or post-treatment methods needs to be based on a ‘fit for purpose’ principle and carefully integrated with the proposed water end use to ensure that human and environmental health risks are appropriately managed.
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198
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Crone BC, Speth TF, Wahman DG, Smith SJ, Abulikemu G, Kleiner EJ, Pressman JG. Occurrence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Source Water and Their Treatment in Drinking Water. CRITICAL REVIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2019; 49:2359-2396. [PMID: 32831535 PMCID: PMC7433796 DOI: 10.1080/10643389.2019.1614848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) occurrence in drinking water and treatment methods for their removal are reviewed. PFAS are fluorinated substances whose unique properties make them effective surface-active agents with uses ranging from stain repellants to fire-fighting foams. In response to concerns about drinking water contamination and health risks from PFAS exposure, the United States Environmental Protection Agency published Health Advisories (HAs) for perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid. The occurrence of six PFAS in drinking water has been reported in the Third Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR3), and subsequent analysis of the dataset suggested that four percent of water systems reported at least one detectable PFAS compound and 1.3 percent of water systems reported results above the HAs. Many treatment technologies have been evaluated in the literature, with the most promising and readily applied treatment technologies being activated carbon, anion exchange resins, and high-pressure membrane systems. From these data and literature reports, research and data gaps were identified and suggestions for future research are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C. Crone
- National Risk Management Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Cincinnati, OH 45268
| | - Thomas F. Speth
- National Risk Management Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Cincinnati, OH 45268
| | - David G. Wahman
- National Risk Management Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Cincinnati, OH 45268
| | | | | | - Eric J. Kleiner
- National Risk Management Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Cincinnati, OH 45268
| | - Jonathan G. Pressman
- National Risk Management Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Cincinnati, OH 45268
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199
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Lath S, Knight ER, Navarro DA, Kookana RS, McLaughlin MJ. Sorption of PFOA onto different laboratory materials: Filter membranes and centrifuge tubes. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 222:671-678. [PMID: 30735967 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.01.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2018] [Revised: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Measurement and reporting of concentrations of contaminants of emerging concern such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), is an integral part of most investigations. Occurrence of sorption losses of PFAS analytes onto particular laboratory-ware (e.g. glass containers) has been suggested in the published literature but has not been investigated in detail. We examined sorption losses from aqueous PFOA solutions in contact with different commonly-used materials in filter units and centrifuge tubes (glass and plastics). Sorption of PFOA onto different filter membrane types ranged from 21-79% indicating that filtration can introduce a major source of error in PFOA analysis; pre-treatment of filter membranes with phosphate or methanol solutions did not improve PFOA recovery. Substantial adsorption of PFOA was also observed on tubes made from polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), and glass where losses observed were between 32-45%, 27-35%, 16-31% and 14-24%, respectively. Contrary to suggestions in the literature, our results indicated that the greatest sorption losses for PFOA occurred on PP, whereas losses on glass tubes were much lower. Variations in ionic strength and pH did not greatly influence PFOA recovery. When PFOA concentrations were increased, the percent recovery of PFOA increased, indicating that binding sites on tube-walls were saturable. This study draws attention towards analytical bias that can occur due to sorption losses during routine procedures, and highlights the importance of testing the suitability of chosen laboratory-ware for specific PFAS analytes of interest prior to experimental use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya Lath
- School of Agriculture Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, PMB 1, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia.
| | - Emma R Knight
- School of Agriculture Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, PMB 1, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia; CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 2, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia.
| | - Divina A Navarro
- School of Agriculture Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, PMB 1, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia; CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 2, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia.
| | - Rai S Kookana
- CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 2, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia.
| | - Michael J McLaughlin
- School of Agriculture Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, PMB 1, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia; CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 2, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064, Australia.
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200
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Abstract
Underground sensing and propagation of Signals in the Soil (SitS) medium is an electromagnetic issue. The path loss prediction with higher accuracy is an open research subject in digital agriculture monitoring applications for sensing and communications. The statistical data are predominantly derived from site-specific empirical measurements, which is considered an impediment to universal application. Nevertheless, in the existing literature, statistical approaches have been applied to the SitS channel modeling, where impulse response analysis and the Friis open space transmission formula are employed as the channel modeling tool in different soil types under varying soil moisture conditions at diverse communication distances and burial depths. In this article, an electromagnetic field analysis is presented as an enhanced monitoring approach for subsurface radio wave propagation and underground sensing applications in the field of digital agriculture. The signal strength results are shown for different distances and depths in the subsurface medium. The analysis shows that the lateral wave is the dominant wave in subsurface communications. Moreover, the shallow depths are more suitable for soil moisture sensing and long-range underground communications. The developed paradigm leads to advanced system design for real-time soil monitoring applications.
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