1
|
Wen W, Gao L, Cheng H, Xiao L, Zhang S, Li S, Jiang X, Xia X. Legacy and alternative perfluoroalkyl acids in the Yellow River on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: Levels, spatiotemporal characteristics, and multimedia transport processes. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 262:122095. [PMID: 39032330 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.122095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
The source region of the Yellow River (SRYR) located in the northeast of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau is not only the largest runoff-producing area in the Yellow River Basin, but also the most important freshwater-supply ecological function area in China. In this study, the short-term spatiotemporal distribution of selected legacy and alternative perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in the SRYR was first investigated in multiple environmental media. Total PFAA concentrations were in the range of 1.16-14.3 ng/L, 4.25-42.1 pg/L, and 0.21-13.0 pg/g dw in rainwater, surface water, and sediment, respectively. C4-C7 PFAAs were predominant in various environmental matrices. Spatiotemporal characteristics were observed in the concentrations and composition profiles. Particularly, the spatial distribution of rainwater and the temporal distribution of surface water exhibited highly significant differences (p<0.01). Indian monsoon, westerly air masses, and local mountain-valley breeze were the driving factors that contributed to the change of rainwater. Rainwater, meltwater runoff, and precursor degradation were important sources of PFAA pollution in surface water. Organic carbon content was a major factor influencing PFAA distribution in sediment. These results provide a theoretical basis for revealing the regional transport and fate of PFAAs, and are also important prerequisites for effectively protecting the freshwater resource and aquatic environment of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wu Wen
- Instrumentation and Service Center for Science and Technology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China; Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Lijuan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Office of Laboratory and Equipment Management, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Instrumentation and Service Center for Science and Technology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China; College of Environment Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Instrumentation and Service Center for Science and Technology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China; Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Shangwei Zhang
- Advanced Interdisciplinary Institute of Environment and Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China.
| | - Siling Li
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xiaoman Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xinghui Xia
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cerlanek AR, Timshina AS, Robey N, Lin AM, Solo-Gabriele HM, Townsend TG, Bowden JA. Investigating the partitioning behavior of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during thermal landfill leachate evaporation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134500. [PMID: 38714054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Thermal landfill leachate evaporator systems can reduce the volume of leachate by up to 97%, while releasing water vapor and producing residuals (volume-reduced leachate and sludge) that are managed on-site. On-site thermal evaporators offer landfill operators leachate management autonomy without being subject to increasingly stringent wastewater treatment plant requirements. However, little is known about the partitioning of PFAS within these systems, nor the extent to which PFAS may be emitted into the environment via vapor. In this study, feed leachate, residual evaporated leachate, sludge, and condensed vapor were sampled at two active full-scale thermal landfill leachate evaporators and from a laboratory-scale leachate evaporation experiment. Samples were analyzed for 91 PFAS via ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Similar trends were observed from Evaporator 1, Evaporator 2, and the laboratory-scale evaporator; ∑PFAS were concentrated in the residual evaporated leachate during evaporation by a factor of 5.3 to 20. All condensed vapors sampled (n = 5) contained PFAS, predominantly 5:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (5:3FTCA), (full-scale vapors 729 - 4087 ng/L PFAS; lab-scale vapor 61.0 ng/L PFAS). For Evaporators 1 and 2, an estimated 9 - 24% and 10%, respectively, of the PFAS mass entering the evaporators in leachate was released with vapor during the days of sample collection. '.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison R Cerlanek
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA
| | - Alina S Timshina
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA
| | - Nicole Robey
- Innovative Waste Consulting Services LLC, Gainesville, FL 32606 USA
| | - Ashley M Lin
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- University of Miami, Department of Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, Coral Gables, FL 33146 USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA; University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu Y, Lin A, Thompson J, Bowden JA, Townsend TG. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in construction and demolition debris (CDD): discerning sources and fate during waste management. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134567. [PMID: 38735190 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
As regulatory frameworks for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) evolve, the solid waste community seeks to manage PFAS risks effectively. Despite extensive research on PFAS in municipal solid waste (MSW) and wastewater sludge, there is limited information on a major global waste stream which seldom gleans regulatory oversight - construction and demolition debris (CDD). This study sampled a CDD processing facility to provide material-specific information on the PFAS profile within CDD. The bulk CDD accepted by this facility was separated into major categories, representatively sampled, then characterized for total available PFAS (∑92PFAS). As reprocessed CDD is ultimately recycled or landfilled, often unencapsulated or in unlined landfills, the PFAS leaching potential was also examined using two leaching procedures. Among the categories assessed for total PFAS, carpeting, carpet padding, and gypsum drywall showed elevated concentrations compared to other components, with most of the PFAS mass contributed by precursor species. However, materials with the highest total PFAS, such as carpeting, did not necessarily exhibit the highest leaching, and leachate was predominantly composed of terminal species rather than precursors. Extrapolating these findings with national CDD generation and management data inventories suggests that despite MSW having higher total available PFAS concentrations, the leachability of PFAS from landfilled CDD is comparable, raising legitimate concerns with CDD disposal practices, particularly in unlined CDD landfills.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Liu
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA; Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, PO Box 116450, Gainesville, FL 32611-6450, USA
| | - Ashley Lin
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, PO Box 116450, Gainesville, FL 32611-6450, USA
| | - Jake Thompson
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, PO Box 116450, Gainesville, FL 32611-6450, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, PO Box 116450, Gainesville, FL 32611-6450, USA; Department of Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, Basic Science Building, Room 324, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, PO Box 116450, Gainesville, FL 32611-6450, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Robey NM, Liu Y, Crespo-Medina M, Bowden JA, Solo-Gabriele HM, Townsend TG, Tolaymat TM. Characterization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other constituents in MSW landfill leachate from Puerto Rico. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142141. [PMID: 38677605 PMCID: PMC11200199 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Elevated per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) concentrations have been reported in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill leachate with higher levels in wet and warmer subtropical climates. Information about landfill leachate characteristics is much more limited in tropical climates. In this study, 20 landfill leachate samples were collected from three MSW landfills on the tropical island of Puerto Rico and results were compared against landfills nationally and within Florida, USA. The samples collected in Puerto Rico underwent physical-chemical analysis, as well as a quantitative analysis of 92 PFAS. Samples described in this study include discrete leachate types, such as leachate, gas condensate, and leachate which has undergone on-site treatment (e.g., RO treatment, phytoremediation, lagoons). A total of 51 PFAS were detected above quantitation limits, including perfluorohexylphosphonic acid, a perfluoroalkyl acid (PFAA) which has not been reported previously in landfill leachate. ∑PFAS concentrations in this study (mean: 38,000 ng L-1), as well as concentrations of individual PFAS, are significantly higher than other reported MSW landfill leachate concentrations. The profiles of leachates collected from on-site treatment systems indicate possible transformation of precursor PFAS as a result of treatment processes - oxidizing conditions, for example, may facilitate aerobic transformation, increase the concentrations of PFAAs, and possibly increase the apparent ∑PFAS concentration. Extreme climate events, including rising temperatures and more frequent hurricanes, have placed additional strain on the solid waste management infrastructure on the island - adding complexity to an already challenging PFAS management issue. As concern grows over PFAS contamination in drinking water, these findings should inform solid waste and leachate management decisions in order to minimize PFAS emissions in island environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Robey
- Innovative Technical Solutions, LLC, Gainesville, FL, 32606, USA; University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Yalan Liu
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Melitza Crespo-Medina
- Center for Environmental Education, Conservation and Research (CECIA), Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, San Germán, PR, 00683, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- University of Miami, Department of Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering, Coral Gables, FL, 33146-0630, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Innovative Technical Solutions, LLC, Gainesville, FL, 32606, USA; University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Cincinnati, OH, 45268, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mikhael E, Bouazza A, Gates WP, Gibbs D. Are Geotextiles Silent Contributors of Ultrashort Chain PFASs to the Environment? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:8867-8877. [PMID: 38733414 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
We investigated the presence of per- and poly fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in woven and nonwoven polypropylene geotextiles and four nonwoven polyester geotextiles commonly used in modern geosynthetic composite lining systems for waste containment facilities such as landfills. Targeted analysis for 23 environmentally significant PFAS molecules and methods for examining "PFAS total" concentrations were utilized to assess their occurrence in geotextiles. This analysis showed that most geotextile specimens evaluated in the current investigation contained the ultrashort chain PFAS compound pentafluoropropionic acid (PFPrA). While the concentrations ranged from nondetectable to 10.84 μg/g, the average measured concentrations of PFPrA were higher in polypropylene than in polyester geotextiles. "PFAS total" parameters comprising total fluorine (TF) and total oxidizable precursors (TOPs) indicate that no significant precursor mass nor untargeted intermediates were present in geotextiles. Therefore, this study identified geotextiles as a possible source of ultrashort PFASs in engineered lined waste containment facilities, which may contribute to the overall PFAS total concentrations in leachates or liquors they are in contact with. The findings reported for the first time herein may lead to further implications on the fate and migration of PFASs in geosynthetic composite liners, as previously unidentified concentrations, particularly of ultrashort-chain PFASs, may impact the extent of PFAS migration through and attenuation by constituents of geosynthetic composite liner systems. Given the widespread use of geotextiles in various engineering activities, these findings may have other unknown impacts. The significance of these findings needs to be further elucidated by more extensive studies with larger geotextile sample sizes to allow broader, generalized conclusions to be drawn.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elissar Mikhael
- Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University, 23 College Walk, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Abdelmalek Bouazza
- Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University, 23 College Walk, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Will P Gates
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Melbourne-Burwood Campus, 221 Burwood Highway, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Daniel Gibbs
- Research and Innovation, Geofabrics, 11 Production Avenue, Molendinar, Queensland 4214, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen Y, Zhang H, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Evaluation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in landfill liquids from Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Wisconsin. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141719. [PMID: 38513956 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141719] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
PER: and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been measured in aqueous components within landfills. To date, the majority of these studies have been conducted in Florida. This current study aimed to evaluate PFAS concentrations in aqueous components (leachate, gas condensate, stormwater, and groundwater) from four landfills located outside of Florida, in Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Wisconsin (2 landfills). The Pennsylvania landfill also provided the opportunity to assess a leachate treatment system. Sample analyses were consistent across studies including the measurements of 26 PFAS and physical-chemical parameters. For the four target landfills, average PFAS concentrations were 6,900, 22,000, 280, and 260 ng L-1 in the leachate, gas condensate, stormwater, and groundwater, respectively. These results were not significantly different than those observed for landfills in Florida except for the significantly higher PFAS concentrations in gas condensate compared to leachate. For on-site treatment at the Pennsylvania landfill, results suggest that the membrane biological bioreactor (MBBR) system performed similarly as aeration-based leachate treatment systems at Florida landfills resulting in no significant decreases in ∑26PFAS. Overall, results suggest a general consistency across US regions in PFAS concentrations within different landfill liquid types, with the few differences observed likely influenced by landfill design and local climate. Results confirm that leachate exposed to open air (e.g., in trenches or in treatment systems) have lower proportions of perfluoroalkyl acid precursors relative to leachate collected in enclosed pipe systems. Results also confirm that landfills without bottom liner systems may have relatively higher PFAS levels in adjacent groundwater and that landfills in wetter climates tend to have higher PFAS concentrations in leachate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
| | - Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geomatics Engineering, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Saha B, Ateia M, Fernando S, Xu J, DeSutter T, Iskander SM. PFAS occurrence and distribution in yard waste compost indicate potential volatile loss, downward migration, and transformation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2024; 26:657-666. [PMID: 38312055 DOI: 10.1039/d3em00538k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
We discovered high concentrations of PFAS (18.53 ± 1.5 μg kg-1) in yard waste compost, a compost type widely acceptable to the public. Seventeen out of forty targeted PFAS, belonging to six PFAS classes were detected in yard waste compost, with PFCAs (13.51 ± 0.99 μg kg-1) and PFSAs (4.13 ± 0.19 μg kg-1) being the dominant classes, comprising approximately 72.5% and 22.1% of the total measured PFAS. Both short-chain PFAS, such as PFBA, PFHxA, and PFBS, and long-chain PFAS, such as PFOA and PFOS, were prevalent in all the tested yard waste compost samples. We also discovered the co-occurrence of PFAS with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics. Total PFAS concentrations in LDPE and PET separated from incoming yard waste were 7.41 ± 0.41 μg kg-1 and 1.35 ± 0.1 μg kg-1, which increased to 8.66 ± 0.81 μg kg-1 in LDPE and 5.44 ± 0.56 μg kg-1 in PET separated from compost. An idle mature compost pile revealed a clear vertical distribution of PFAS, with the total PFAS concentrations at the surface level approximately 58.9-63.2% lower than the 2 ft level. This difference might be attributed to the volatile loss of short-chain PFCAs, PFAS's downward movement with moisture, and aerobic transformations of precursor PFAS at the surface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biraj Saha
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, North Dakota State University, 1410 14th Ave N, CIE 201, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, USA.
| | - Mohamed Ateia
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, USA
| | - Sujan Fernando
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, USA
| | - Jiale Xu
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, North Dakota State University, 1410 14th Ave N, CIE 201, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, USA.
| | - Thomas DeSutter
- Department of Soil Science, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, USA
| | - Syeed Md Iskander
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, North Dakota State University, 1410 14th Ave N, CIE 201, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, USA.
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, North Dakota State University, 1410 14th Ave N, CIE 201, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li J, Sha H, Liu W, Yuan Y, Zhu G, Meng F, Xi B, Tan W. Transport of per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances from leachate to groundwater as affected by dissolved organic matter in landfills. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 247:118230. [PMID: 38237756 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118230] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The transport of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from landfill leachate to surrounding soil and groundwater poses a threat to human health via the food chain or drinking water. Studies have shown that the transport process of PFAS from the solid to liquid phase in the environment is significantly affected by dissolved organic matter (DOM) adsorption. However, the mechanism of PFAS release from landfill solids into leachate and its transport to the surrounding groundwater remains unclear. In this study, we identified the composition of PFAS and DOM components and analyzed the association between DOM components, physicochemical factors, and PFAS concentrations in landfill leachate and groundwater. This study demonstrated that the frequency of PFAS detection in the samples was 100%, and the PFAS concentrations in leachate were greater than in the groundwater samples. Physicochemical factors, such as ammonium-nitrogen (NH4+-N), sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), DOM components C4 (macromolecular humic acid), SUVA254 (aromatic component content), and A240-400 (humification degree and molecular weight), were strongly correlated with PFAS concentrations. In conclusion, PFAS environmental risk management should be enhanced in landfills, especially in closed landfills, or landfills that are scheduled to close in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Haoqun Sha
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Weijiang Liu
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Ganghui Zhu
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Fanhua Meng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Beidou Xi
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Wenbing Tan
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Currell M, Northby N, Netherway P. Examining changes in groundwater PFAS contamination from legacy landfills over a three-year period at Australia's largest urban renewal site. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141345. [PMID: 38307330 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141345] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Understanding groundwater contamination from legacy landfills, including fate and transport of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), is a critical challenge for sustainable urban renewal. We analysed groundwater within and surrounding legacy landfills at Fishermans Bend for PFAS and complementary hydrochemical indicators. Sampling in 2017 revealed extensive PFAS contamination from the landfills. We re-examined concentrations after a 3-year period, to assess natural source attenuation and evolution of the contaminant plumes. Total PFAS (∑38PFAS) ranged from 88 to 973 ng/L, with relatively high concentrations (mean = 500 ng/L, n = 4) in samples directly within the waste mass of a large legacy municipal and industrial landfill (Port Melbourne Tip). Two samples on the boundary of a former construction and demolition waste landfill also had elevated PFAS concentrations (∑38PFAS = 232 and 761.5 ng/L). Down-gradient of the landfills, groundwater showed reductions in total PFAS, though still maintained considerable loads (∑PFAS = 107.5-207.5 ng/L). Long-chained PFAS showed greatest reductions relative to chloride concentrations down-gradient of the landfills, consistent with sorption as the predominant removal mechanism. The dominant mass fractions detected were similar in 2017 and 2020 (median: PFOS > PFHxS > PFHxA > PFOA); comprising the widely known, persistent 'legacy' PFAS. Re-sampled bores returned similar concentrations of these PFAS in 2017 and 2020 (median %RPDs of 0.0, 9.3 and 15.4, for PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS, respectively). However, there were marked increases in concentrations of certain PFAS in three bores - including a previously un-impacted background site. The results show limited attenuation of legacy landfill PFAS contamination in groundwater over a 3-year period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Currell
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan 4111, QLD, Australia; Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan 4111, QLD, Australia; School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, VIC, Australia.
| | - Nathan Northby
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, VIC, Australia; Geosyntec Consultants, Australia
| | - Pacian Netherway
- EPA Science, Environment Protection Authority Victoria, Centre for Applied Sciences, Macleod 3085 VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen Y, Zhang H, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Evaluation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) released from two Florida landfills based on mass balance analyses. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 175:348-359. [PMID: 38252979 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.12.054] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been found at high levels within landfill environments. To assess PFAS distributions, this study aimed to evaluate PFAS mass flux leached from disposed solid waste and within landfill reservoirs by mass balance analyses for two full-scale operational Florida landfills. PFAS mass flux in different aqueous components within landfills were estimated based on PFAS concentrations and water flow rates. For PFAS concentration, 26 PFAS, including 18 perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and 8 PFAA-precursors, were measured in samples collected from the landfills or estimated based on previous studies. Flow rates of aqueous components (rainfall, evapotranspiration, runoff, stormwater, groundwater, leakage, gas condensate, and leachate) were evaluated through the Hydrologic Evaluation of Landfill Performance model, water balance, and Darcy's Law. Results showed that the average PFAS mass flux leached from the solid waste standardized by area was estimated as 36.8 g/ha-yr, which was approximately 1 % to 3 % of the total amount of PFAS within the solid waste. The majority of PFAS leached from the solid waste (95 % to 97 %) is captured by the leachate collection system, with other aqueous components representing much smaller fractions (stormwater system at 3 % to 5 %, and gas condensate and groundwater at < 1 %). Also, based on the results, we estimate that PFAS releases will likely occur at least over 40 years. Overall, these results can help prioritize components for waste management and PFAS treatment during the anticipated landfill release periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geomatics Engineering, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang H, Chen Y, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Comparison of the PFAS and physical-chemical parameter fluctuations between an ash landfill and a MSW landfill. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 174:558-567. [PMID: 38141373 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Studies of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) fluctuations at landfills have focused on municipal solid waste (MSW) leachate. Few studies exist that evaluate fluctuations (defined by the coefficient of variation, CV) in MSW incinerator ash (MSWA) landfill leachate and that evaluate PFAS fluctuations in stormwater, groundwater, and treated liquids on-site. In this study, aqueous landfill samples (leachate, treated leachate, stormwater, gas condensate, ambient groundwater, and effluent from a groundwater remediation system) were collected from a MSW and an MSWA landfill geographically located within close proximity (less than 40 km). The objective of this study was to compare the leachate compositions between these two landfill types and to evaluate temporal variations. Results indicated that the CV of total detected PFAS concentrations in leachate was higher for the MSW landfill (CV = 43 %) compared to the MSWA landfill (CV = 16 %). The total detected PFAS concentration in MSW leachate samples (mean: 9641 ng/L) was higher than in MSWA leachate samples (mean: 2621 ng/L) (p < 0.05). Within a landfill, PFAS concentrations were correlated (rs > 0.6, p < 0.05) with alkalinity, total organic carbon (TOC), and ammonia. Results from the on-site leachate treatment system at the MSW landfill indicated reductions in COD, TOC, and ammonia; however, the ∑26PFAS concentration increased 3 % after the treatment. Overall, results demonstrated that differences between landfill types and fluctuations in PFAS within landfills should be considered when designing landfill leachate collection and treatment systems to remove PFAS. The comparative analysis in this study can provide insights into optimizing leachate management for MSW and MSWA landfills.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cerlanek A, Liu Y, Robey N, Timshina AS, Bowden JA, Townsend TG. Assessing construction and demolition wood-derived biochar for in-situ per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) removal from landfill leachate. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 174:382-389. [PMID: 38101234 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.12.017] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
With regulations for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) impending, the abundance of these chemicals of emerging concern in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill leachate increasingly challenges landfill operators to seek on-site leachate pre-treatment options. This two-staged study explores the potential reuse of biochar derived from construction and demolition debris (CDD) wood as an in-situ PFAS sorbent for application within MSW landfill leachate collection systems. Batch leaching tests were first used to examine the feasibility of capturing PFAS from landfill leachate using two sources of CDD-wood-derived biochar. Then, columns were used to test the in-situ sorption capabilities of the same biochars under simulated landfill conditions. All leachates were characterized for pH, chemical oxygen demand, ammonia-nitrogen, and 92 PFAS. Seventeen PFAS were detected in the batch leaching experiment, and nine PFAS were detected in column leachates. In the batch leaching scenario, Biochar 1 achieved a maximum of 29% PFAS reduction compared to controls. Columns containing Biochar 1 generated leachates with PFAS concentrations 50% to 80% higher than those in control columns for the duration of the experiment. Columns containing Biochar 2 generated leachates with PFAS concentrations 44% less than controls in week 1 and similar concentrations in weeks 2, 3, and 4. In this study, PFAS removal from landfill leachate using biochar derived from CDD wood was not significant. Further research on biochar derived from CDD wood is needed before it can be recommended as an in-situ landfill leachate pre-treatment method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison Cerlanek
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Yalan Liu
- Florida Atlantic University, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Nicole Robey
- Innovative Technical Solutions, Gainesville, FL 32606, USA
| | - Alina S Timshina
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Payne M, Kleywegt S, Ng CF. Industrial sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to a sewershed in Ontario, Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:16086-16091. [PMID: 38316740 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32206-3] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous in the environment despite global regulatory action to restrict their use in industrial processes and products. The objective of this reconnaissance sampling was to understand current industrial use and ongoing sources of PFAS in Ontario. Fourteen PFAS were analyzed in effluents from four sectors: electroplaters, laundry and carpet cleaners, landfills, and circuit board manufacturers that discharge to sewersheds connected to wastewater treatment plants. Maximum concentrations were detected in carpet cleaning wastewater: 79,000 ng/L for perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), 26,000 ng/L perfluorooctane sulfate (PFOS), and 9400 ng/L perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Total summed PFAS (∑PFAS14) concentrations were highest in laundry and carpet cleaners > electroplaters > landfill leachate > circuit boarders. These results indicate that PFAS continue to be used in select manufacturing and processing facilities and that the elevated levels are associated with past and current uses in commercial products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Payne
- Public Works, The Regional Municipality of York, Newmarket, ON, Canada.
| | - Sonya Kleywegt
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Chi-Fai Ng
- Public Works, The Regional Municipality of York, Newmarket, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rico CM, Wagner DC, Ofoegbu PC, Kirwa NJ, Clubb P, Coates K, Zenobio JE, Adeleye AS. Toxicity assessment of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) on a spontaneous plant, velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti), via metabolomics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:167894. [PMID: 37866594 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Spontaneous plants often play important ecological roles in terrestrial environments, but impacts of contaminants on spontaneous plants are seldom investigated. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), such as perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) are ubiquitous in rural and urban soils. In this study, we assessed the effects of PFOS on a spontaneous plant, velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti), using endpoints such as plant growth, stress defense, PFOS uptake, and elemental and metabolite profile. We observed stunted growth in plants grown in PFOS-contaminated soils, with PFOS accumulating in their shoots by up to 3000 times more than the control plants. The other endpoints (decreased chlorophyll a synthesis, elevated oxidative stress, reduced shoot Mg concentration, and reduced biomass production) also explained the stunted growth of velvetleaf exposed to elevated PFOS concentrations. We found that 56 metabolites involved in 13 metabolic pathways were dysregulated. The synthesis of important antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, hydroxycinnamic acids (coumaric, caffeic, ferulic, and sinapic acids), and tocopherols decreased, resulting in loss of plant's defense to stress. PFOS also reduced the levels of growth-related and stress-coping metabolites including squalene, serotonin, noradrenalin, putrescine, and indole-3-propionic acid, which further corroborated the restricted growth of velvetleaf exposed to elevated PFOS. These findings provide insights on phytotoxicity of PFOS to velvetleaf, a resilient terrestrial spontaneous plant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyren M Rico
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Missouri State University, 901 S National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897, USA.
| | - Dane C Wagner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Missouri State University, 901 S National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897, USA
| | - Polycarp C Ofoegbu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Missouri State University, 901 S National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897, USA
| | - Naum J Kirwa
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Missouri State University, 901 S National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897, USA
| | - Preston Clubb
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Missouri State University, 901 S National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897, USA
| | - Kameron Coates
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Missouri State University, 901 S National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897, USA; Willard High School, 515 E Jackson St., Willard, MO 65781, USA
| | - Jenny E Zenobio
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA
| | - Adeyemi S Adeleye
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-2175, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chi F, Zhao J, Yang L, Yang X, Zhao X, Zhao S, Zhan J. Using regular and transcriptomic analyses to investigate the biotransformation mechanism and phytotoxic effects of 6:2 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (6:2 FTCA) in pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima L.). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167901. [PMID: 37858819 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167901] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Although 6:2 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (6:2 FTCA), which is one of the most popular substitutes for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), has been widely distributed in environments, little is known about its biotransformation mechanism and phytotoxic effects in plants. Here, we showed that 6:2 FTCA could be taken up by pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima L.) roots from exposure solution and acropetally translocated to shoots. Biotransformation of 6:2 FTCA to different carbon chain perfluorocarboxylic acid (PFCA) metabolites (C2-C7) via α-and β-oxidation in pumpkin was observed, and perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) was the major transformation product. The results of enzyme assays, enzyme inhibition experiments and gene expression analysis indicated that cytochrome P450 (CYP450), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters were involved in the metabolism of 6:2 FTCA in pumpkin. Plant-associated rhizobacteria and endophyte also contributed to 6:2 FTCA degradation through β-oxidation. The chlorophyll (Chl) content and genes involved in photosynthesis were significantly improved by 6:2 FTCA. The reductions of antioxidant and metabolic enzyme activities reflected the antioxidant defense system and detoxification system of pumpkin were both damaged, which were further confirmed by the down-regulating associated genes encoding phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, endoplasmic reticulum-related proteins, ascorbate-glutathione cycle and ABC transporters. This study is helpful to understand the environmental behaviors and toxicological molecular mechanisms of 6:2 FTCA in plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanghui Chi
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Jingyan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Liping Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, PR China
| | - Xiaojing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Xv Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Shuyan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China.
| | - Jingjing Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Parker BA, Valentini E, Graham SE, Starr JM. In vitro modeling of the post-ingestion bioaccessibility of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances sorbed to soil and house dust. Toxicol Sci 2023; 197:95-103. [PMID: 37740396 PMCID: PMC10942096 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are regularly found in soils and dusts, both of which can be consumed by children at relatively high amounts. However, there is little data available to model the bioaccessibility of PFAS in soils and dusts when consumed or to describe how the physiochemical properties of PFAS and soils/dusts might affect bioaccessibility of these chemicals. Because bioaccessibility is an important consideration in estimating absorbed dose for exposure and risk assessments, in the current study, in vitro assays were used to determine bioaccessibility of 14 PFAS in 33 sets of soils and dusts. Bioaccessibility assays were conducted with and without a sink, which was used to account for the removal of PFAS due to their movement across the human intestine. Multiple linear regression with backward elimination showed that a segmented model using PFAS chain length, number of branches, and percent total organic carbon explained 78.0%-88.9% of the variability in PFAS bioaccessibility. In general, PFAS had significantly greater bioaccessibility in soils relative to dusts and the addition of a sink increased bioaccessibility in the test system by as much as 10.8% for soils and 20.3% for dusts. The results from this study indicate that PFAS bioaccessibility in soils and dusts can be predicted using a limited set of physical chemical characteristics and could be used to inform risk assessment models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bethany A Parker
- Office of Research and Development, Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Fellow at the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Evelyn Valentini
- Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Stephen E Graham
- Office of Pesticide Programs, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - James M Starr
- Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hu H, Zeng X, Zheng K, Zeng Z, Dai C, Huo X. Risk assessment and partitioning behavior of PFASs in environmental matrices from an e-waste recycling area. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167707. [PMID: 37820795 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167707] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contamination and their human exposure risks are a major concern. However, knowledge of PFAS contamination in environments near e-waste recycling sites and their health risk assessment are scarce. METHODS We measured the concentrations of PFASs in soil (n = 12), water (n = 12) and atmospheric samples (n = 26) by LCP-MS/MS, analyzed the source apportionment of PFASs by PCA, and investigated the child health risk assessment from an e-waste recycling area (Guiyu) and a reference area (Haojiang). RESULTS We found high concentrations of PFASs in the atmosphere and low concentrations of PFASs in soil. The average concentration of perfluoro-n-heptanoic acid (PFHpA) (9.43 ng/L) was highest among PFASs in water. The concentrations PFASs in the atmosphere and water were higher in the e-waste recycling area than in the reference area (p < 0.05). According to Multi-Linear regression model, we found that daily intake doses for PFASs in air of PFODA [β (95 % CI): -0.217 (-0.332, -0.048), p < 0.05] and PFBS [β (95 % CI): -0.064 (-0.106, -0.006), p < 0.05] were negatively associated with child BMI. PFBA [β (95 % CI: -1.039 (-2.454, -0.010), p < 0.05] was negatively correlated with child head circumference. CONCLUSION The concentrations of PFASs in the water and atmosphere are higher in the e-waste recycling site than in the reference area. We found that their intake affected growth and development in children. We need to reduce pollution from PFASs in the e-waste recycling area while maintaining a focus on their impact on child health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongfei Hu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiang Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong Province, China; Zhejiang International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Air Pollution and Health, School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Keyang Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chenxu Dai
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tolaymat T, Robey N, Krause M, Larson J, Weitz K, Parvathikar S, Phelps L, Linak W, Burden S, Speth T, Krug J. A critical review of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) landfill disposal in the United States. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167185. [PMID: 37734620 PMCID: PMC10842600 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Landfills manage materials containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from municipal solid waste (MSW) and other waste streams. This manuscript summarizes state and federal initiatives and critically reviews peer-reviewed literature to define best practices for managing these wastes and identify data gaps to guide future research. The objective is to inform stakeholders about waste-derived PFAS disposed of in landfills, PFAS emissions, and the potential for related environmental impacts. Furthermore, this document highlights data gaps and uncertainties concerning the fate of PFAS during landfill disposal. Most studies on this topic measured PFAS in liquid landfill effluent (leachate); comparatively fewer have attempted to estimate PFAS loading in landfills or other effluent streams such as landfill gas (LFG). In all media, the reported total PFAS heavily depends on waste types and the number of PFAS included in the analytical method. Early studies which only measured a small number of PFAS, predominantly perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), likely report a significant underestimation of total PFAS. Major findings include relationships between PFAS effluent and landfill conditions - biodegradable waste increases PFAS transformation and leaching. Based on the results of multiple studies, it is estimated that 84% of PFAS loading to MSW landfills (7.2 T total) remains in the waste mass, while 5% leaves via LFG and 11% via leachate on an annual basis. The environmental impact of landfill-derived PFAS has been well-documented. Additional research is needed on PFAS in landfilled construction and demolition debris, hazardous, and industrial waste in the US.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thabet Tolaymat
- The Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Management, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Nicole Robey
- Innovative Technical Solutions, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Max Krause
- The Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Management, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Judd Larson
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Keith Weitz
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Lara Phelps
- The Center for Environmental Measurements and Modeling, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - William Linak
- The Center for Environmental Measurements and Modeling, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Susan Burden
- Office of Science Advisor, Policy and Engagement, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tom Speth
- The Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Management, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jonathan Krug
- The Center for Environmental Measurements and Modeling, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hao S, Reardon PN, Choi YJ, Zhang C, Sanchez JM, Higgins CP, Strathmann TJ. Hydrothermal Alkaline Treatment (HALT) of Foam Fractionation Concentrate Derived from PFAS-Contaminated Groundwater. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:17154-17165. [PMID: 37856848 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c05140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
While foam fractionation (FF) process has emerged as a promising technology for removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) from contaminated groundwater, management of the resulting foam concentrates with elevated concentrations of PFASs (e.g., >1 g/L) remains a challenge. Here, we applied hydrothermal alkaline treatment (HALT) to two foam concentrates derived from FF field demonstration projects that treated aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF)-impacted groundwater. Results showed >90% degradation and defluorination within 90 min of treatment (350 °C, 1 M NaOH) of all 62 PFASs (including cations, anions, and zwitterions) identified in foam concentrates. Observed rate constants for degradation of individual perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs, CnF2n+1-SO3-), the most recalcitrant class of PFASs, in both foam concentrates were similar to values measured previously in other aqueous matrices, indicating that elevated initial PFAS concentrations (e.g., PFHxSinit = 0.55 g/L), dissolved organic carbon (DOC; up to 4.5 g/L), and salt levels (e.g., up to 325 mg/L chloride) do not significantly affect PFAS reaction kinetics. DOC was partially mineralized by treatment, but a fraction (∼15%) was recalcitrant. Spectroscopic characterization revealed molecular features of the HALT-recalcitrant DOC fraction, and nontarget high-resolution mass spectrometry tentatively identified 129 nonfluorinated HALT-recalcitrant molecules. Analysis of process energy requirements shows that treating PFAS-contaminated foam concentrates with HALT would add minimally (<5%) to the overall energy requirements of an integrated FF-HALT treatment train.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shilai Hao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Patrick N Reardon
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Youn Jeong Choi
- Department of Agronomy, Purdue University, West Lafayette , Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Chuhui Zhang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | | | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Timothy J Strathmann
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Müller V, Kindness A, Feldmann J. Fluorine mass balance analysis of PFAS in communal waters at a wastewater plant from Austria. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120501. [PMID: 37647770 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120501] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants are a major source of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment; moreover, long chain PFAS are known to accumulate in sewage sludge. Although publications on PFAS in wastewater are available from around the globe, little information is available from Central Europe. In this study influent, effluent, and sludge from two wastewater treatment plants from Austria were analysed for target PFAS compounds with HPLC MS/MS and extractable organic fluorine (EOF) content with combustion ion chromatography (CIC). The sum of 31 target PFAS increased from 22 to 47 ng L-1 in influent to 140 - 213 ng L-1 in effluent and around 10 ng g-1 in sludge, while EOF were found to be consistent (2.3 - 3.5 µg F L-1) in influent/effluent and 280 ng F g-1 in sludge. Mass balance analysis showed an increase in the identified PFAS compounds in the effluent compared to the influent (from 0.9% - 1.3% to 3.6% - 6.1%), suggesting biotransformation of non-targeted PFAS precursor compounds. In conclusion, wastewater treatment plants transform some PFAS, and wastewater effluent is a source of PFAS contamination in surface water.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Müller
- The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, United Kingdom; Institute of Chemistry, University of Graz, Universitatsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Andrew Kindness
- The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, United Kingdom
| | - Jörg Feldmann
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Graz, Universitatsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Joseph NT, Schwichtenberg T, Cao D, Jones GD, Rodowa AE, Barlaz MA, Charbonnet JA, Higgins CP, Field JA, Helbling DE. Target and Suspect Screening Integrated with Machine Learning to Discover Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Source Fingerprints. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:14351-14362. [PMID: 37696050 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c03770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
This study elucidates per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) fingerprints for specific PFAS source types. Ninety-two samples were collected from aqueous film-forming foam impacted groundwater (AFFF-GW), landfill leachate, biosolids leachate, municipal wastewater treatment plant effluent (WWTP), and wastewater effluent from the pulp and paper and power generation industries. High-resolution mass spectrometry operated with electrospray ionization in negative mode was used to quantify up to 50 target PFASs and screen and semi-quantify up to 2,266 suspect PFASs in each sample. Machine learning classifiers were used to identify PFASs that were diagnostic of each source type. Four C5-C7 perfluoroalkyl acids and one suspect PFAS (trihydrogen-substituted fluoroethernonanoic acid) were diagnostic of AFFF-GW. Two target PFASs (5:3 and 6:2 fluorotelomer carboxylic acids) and two suspect PFASs (4:2 fluorotelomer-thia-acetic acid and N-methylperfluoropropane sulfonamido acetic acid) were diagnostic of landfill leachate. Biosolids leachates were best classified along with landfill leachates and N-methyl and N-ethyl perfluorooctane sulfonamido acetic acid assisted in that classification. WWTP, pulp and paper, and power generation samples contained few target PFASs, but fipronil (a fluorinated insecticide) was diagnostic of WWTP samples. Our results provide PFAS fingerprints for known sources and identify target and suspect PFASs that can be used for source allocation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nayantara T Joseph
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Trever Schwichtenberg
- Chemistry Department, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Dunping Cao
- Chemistry Department, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Gerrad D Jones
- Department of Biological & Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Alix E Rodowa
- National Institutes of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Morton A Barlaz
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Joseph A Charbonnet
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Jennifer A Field
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Damian E Helbling
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Smith SJ, Keane C, Ahrens L, Wiberg K. Integrated Treatment of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Existing Wastewater Treatment Plants-Scoping the Potential of Foam Partitioning. ACS ES&T ENGINEERING 2023; 3:1276-1285. [PMID: 37705672 PMCID: PMC10496112 DOI: 10.1021/acsestengg.3c00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Foam fractionation is becoming increasingly popular as a treatment technology for water contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). At many existing wastewater treatment facilities, particularly in aerated treatment steps, foam formation is frequently observed. This study aimed to investigate if foam fractionation for the removal of PFAS could be integrated with such existing treatment processes. Influent, effluent, water under the foam, and foam were sampled from ten different wastewater treatment facilities where foam formation was observed. These samples were analyzed for the concentration of 29 PFAS, also after the total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay. Enrichment factors were defined as the PFAS concentration in the foam divided by the PFAS concentration in the influent. Although foam partitioning did not lead to decreased ∑PFAS concentrations from influent to effluent in any of the plants, certain long-chain PFAS were removed with efficiencies up to 76%. Moreover, ∑PFAS enrichment factors in the foam ranged up to 105, and enrichment factors of individual PFAS ranged even up to 106. Moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs) were more effective at enriching PFAS in the foam than activated sludge processes. Altogether, these high enrichment factors demonstrate that foam partitioning in existing wastewater treatment plants is a promising option for integrated removal. Promoting foam formation and removing foam from the water surface with skimming devices may improve the removal efficiencies further. These findings have important implications for PFAS removal and sampling strategies at wastewater treatment plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanne J. Smith
- Department
of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish
University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Chantal Keane
- Queensland
Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department
of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish
University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Wiberg
- Department
of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish
University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Johnson T, Obereiner J, Khire MV. Longer-term temporal trends in PFAS concentrations in Midwestern landfill leachate. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2023; 41:1445-1452. [PMID: 36964719 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x231160087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
It is well documented that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are routinely detected in leachate from municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills. PFAS-containing products are ubiquitous in society and in end-of-life discarded materials. While considerable data have been generated in recent years for PFAS concentrations in landfill leachate, little published information exists concerning longer-term trends in leachate concentrations. In this study, we examine a ten-year dataset for three MSW landfills located in the upper Midwestern United States where leachate PFAS testing has been performed on a quarterly basis. The significance of these data are considered in light of phase-out initiatives implemented in the US manufacturing companies for longer-chain PFAS including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA). Findings from this study indicate that the average concentration of longer-chain PFOA in the three landfills decreased from 2400 to 1900 ng/L and the average PFOS concentrations decreased from 1000 to 370 ng/L. This may be indicative of reduced domestic production and use of these compounds. The phase-out of long-chain PFAS has also led to the introduction of shorter-chain replacement compounds such as perfluorobutanoic acid, perfluorobutane sulphonate and perfluorohexanoic acid, and this paper also examines long-term trends in leachate concentrations of these compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terry Johnson
- Senior Director of Groundwater and Technical Programs, Waste Management, Inc., Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Milind V Khire
- Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Walsh A, Woods CG. Presence of Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Landfill Adjacent Surface Waters in North Carolina. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6524. [PMID: 37569064 PMCID: PMC10418413 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20156524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Landfills pose an important public health risk, especially in historically disenfranchised communities that are disproportionately sited for landfills and in rural areas where private wells may be impacted. Landfills are major sources of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that migrate into the surrounding environment. This study characterized PFAS in surface waters adjacent to two landfills, one in Sampson County (SC) and one in Orange County (OC) in North Carolina. In addition to municipal solid waste and construction and demolition waste, the landfill in SC accepts industrial sludge from a chemical plant that produces proprietary PFAS. Over four months, 35 surface water samples were collected at upstream, landfill-adjacent, and downstream/downgradient sites. Thirty-four PFAS were analyzed using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectroscopy. Of those, six novel and six legacy PFAS were detected. Legacy PFAS were detected in surface water near both landfills, with the highest concentrations adjacent to the landfill. Novel PFAS were only detected in surface water near the SC landfill and showed the highest concentrations adjacent to the landfill, indicating offsite migration of PFAS. These findings support the need for more comprehensive and frequent monitoring of groundwater and surface water wells near landfills and stricter regulation regarding the landfilling of industrial materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Courtney G. Woods
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Zhang H, Chen Y, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Relationships between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and physical-chemical parameters in aqueous landfill samples. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 329:138541. [PMID: 36996915 PMCID: PMC10680781 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Variable chemistries of liquids from landfills can potentially impact levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The objective of the current study was to evaluate relationships between physical-chemical properties (bulk measurements, oxygen demand components, and metals) and PFAS concentrations in different types of aqueous landfill samples. Aqueous landfill samples were collected from 39 landfill facilities in Florida, United States. These samples included leachates from landfills that receive different waste types, such as municipal solid waste incineration ash (MSWA), construction and demolition debris (C&D), and municipal solid waste (MSW). Additional aqueous landfill samples were sourced from treated landfill leachate, gas condensate, stormwater, and groundwater from within and near the landfill boundaries. Results showed significant correlations (p < 0.05) between ∑26PFAS and alkalinity (rs = 0.83), total organic carbon (TOC) (rs = 0.84), and ammonia (rs = 0.79) for all leachate types. Other physical-chemical parameters that were significantly correlated (rs > 0.60, p < 0.05) with PFAS included specific conductivity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and to a lesser extent, total dissolved solids (TDS) and total solids (TS). For gas condensates, PFAS was significantly correlated with TOC. Stormwater and groundwater, within and near the landfill boundaries, had considerably lower levels of PFAS and had a minimal correlation between PFAS and physical-chemical parameters. Although PFAS concentrations and physical-chemical parameters and their correlations varied between different types of aqueous landfill samples, results suggest that physical-chemical properties can be useful indicators of relative PFAS concentrations within a leachate type. More research is needed to validate the mechanisms that relate physical-chemical parameters to PFAS concentrations in landfill leachates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
| | - Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, 45268, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Mojiri A, Zhou JL, Ozaki N, KarimiDermani B, Razmi E, Kasmuri N. Occurrence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in aquatic environments and their removal by advanced oxidation processes. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 330:138666. [PMID: 37068615 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), one of the main categories of emerging contaminants, are a family of fluorinated organic compounds of anthropogenic origin. PFAS can endanger the environment and human health because of their wide application in industries, long-term persistence, unique properties, and bioaccumulation potential. This study sought to explain the accumulation of different PFAS in water bodies. In aquatic environments, PFAS concentrations range extensively from <0.03 (groundwater; Melbourne, Australia) to 51,000 ng/L (Groundwater, Sweden). Additionally, bioaccumulation of PFAS in fish and water biota has been stated to range from 0.2 (Burbot, Lake Vättern, Sweden) to 13,900 ng/g (Bluegill samples, U.S.). Recently, studies have focused on PFAS removal from aqueous solutions; one promising technique is advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), including microwaves, ultrasound, ozonation, photocatalysis, UV, electrochemical oxidation, the Fenton process, and hydrogen peroxide-based and sulfate radical-based systems. The removal efficiency of PFAS ranges from 3% (for MW) to 100% for UV/sulfate radical as a hybrid reactor. Therefore, a hybrid reactor can be used to efficiently degrade and remove PFAS. Developing novel, efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable AOPs for PFAS degradation in water treatment systems is a critical area of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amin Mojiri
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-8527, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - John L Zhou
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Noriatsu Ozaki
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-8527, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Bahareh KarimiDermani
- Department of Geological Sciences, Hydrogeology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA
| | - Elham Razmi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Norhafezah Kasmuri
- School of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Shah Alam, 40450, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Björklund S, Weidemann E, Jansson S. Emission of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances from a Waste-to-Energy Plant─Occurrence in Ashes, Treated Process Water, and First Observation in Flue Gas. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37319344 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a large group of compounds commonly used as industrial chemicals and constituents of consumer products, e.g., as surfactants and surface protectors. When products containing PFASs reach their end of life, some end up in waste streams sent to waste-to-energy (WtE) plants. However, the fate of PFASs in WtE processes is largely unknown, as is their potential to enter the environment via ash, gypsum, treated process water, and flue gas. This study forms part of a comprehensive investigation of the occurrence and distribution of PFASs in WtE residues. Sampling was performed during incineration of two different waste mixes: normal municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) and incineration of a waste mix with 5-8 wt % sewage sludge added to the MSWI (referred to as Sludge:MSWI). PFASs were identified in all examined residues, with short-chain (C4-C7) perfluorocarboxylic acids being the most abundant. Total levels of extractable PFASs were higher during Sludge:MSWI than during MSWI, with the total annual release estimated to be 47 and 13 g, respectively. Furthermore, PFASs were detected in flue gas for the first time (4.0-5.6 ng m-3). Our results demonstrate that some PFASs are not fully degraded by the high temperatures during WtE conversion and can be emitted from the plant via ash, gypsum, treated process water, and flue gas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Björklund
- Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
- Industrial Doctoral School, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Eva Weidemann
- Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Stina Jansson
- Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gobelius L, Glimstedt L, Olsson J, Wiberg K, Ahrens L. Mass flow of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in a Swedish municipal wastewater network and wastewater treatment plant. CHEMOSPHERE 2023:139182. [PMID: 37302497 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
PER: and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitously distributed in wastewater, due to their numerous uses in industry and consumer products, but little is known of PFAS mass flows in municipal wastewater network systems and within wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This study assessed mass flows of 26 PFAS in a wastewater network and WWTP, to provide new insights into their sources, transport, and fate in different treatment steps. Wastewater and sludge samples were collected from pumping stations and the main WWTP in Uppsala, Sweden. PFAS composition profiles and mass flows were used to identify sources within the sewage network. Wastewater from one pumping station showed elevated concentrations of C3-C8 PFCA, likely caused by an industrial source, and two stations had elevated concentrations of 6:2 FTSA, probably originating from a nearby firefighter training facility. Within the WWTP, short-chain PFAS dominated in wastewater, whereas long-chain PFAS dominated in sludge. The ratio of perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSA) and ethylperfluorooctanesulfonamidoacetic acid (EtFOSAA) to ∑26PFAS decreased during the WWTP process, likely due to sorption to sludge, but also transformation (EtFOSAA). Overall, PFAS were not efficiently removed in the WWTP, with mean removal efficiency of 10 ± 68% for individual PFAS, resulting in discharge of 7000 mg d-1 ∑26PFAS into the recipient. This shows that conventional WWTPs are inefficient in removing PFAS from wastewater and sludge, so advanced treatment techniques are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gobelius
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Linda Glimstedt
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jesper Olsson
- Uppsala Vatten Och Avfall AB, Box 1444, 75144, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Wiberg
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Timshina AS, Sobczak WJ, Griffin EK, Lin AM, Townsend TG, Bowden JA. Up in the air: Polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs) in airborne dust captured by air conditioning (AC) filters. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 325:138307. [PMID: 36878365 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitously present in our indoor living environments. Dust is thought to accumulate PFAS released indoors and serve as an exposure pathway for humans. Here, we investigated whether spent air conditioning (AC) filters can be exploited as opportunistic samplers of airborne dust for assessing PFAS burden in indoor environments. Used AC filters from campus facilities (n = 19) and homes (n = 11) were analyzed for 92 PFAS via targeted ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). While 27 PFAS were measured (in at least one filter), the predominant species were polyfluorinated dialkylated phosphate esters (diPAPs), with the sum of 6:2-, 8:2-, and 6:2/8:2diPAPs accounting for approximately 95 and 98 percent of ∑27PFAS in campus and household filters, respectively. Exploratory screening of a subset of the filters revealed the presence of additional species of mono-, di-, and tri-PAPs. Considering the constant human exposure to dust indoors and the potential of PAPs to degrade into terminal species with well-established toxicological risks, assessing dust for these precursor PFAS warrants further investigation with respect to both human health and PFAS loading to landfills from this under studied waste stream.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina S Timshina
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - William J Sobczak
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Emily K Griffin
- University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Ashley M Lin
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA; University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Grgas D, Petrina A, Štefanac T, Bešlo D, Landeka Dragičević T. A Review: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances-Biological Degradation. TOXICS 2023; 11:toxics11050446. [PMID: 37235260 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11050446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), highly stable synthetic organic compounds with multiple carbon-fluorine bonds, are emerging as environmental contaminants, toxic, bioaccumulative, and environmentally persistent. PFASs are strongly resistant to biological and chemical degradation, and therefore PFASs present a challenge to researchers and scientists for a better understanding and application of remediation methods and biodegradation of PFASs and have become subject to strict government regulations. The review summarizes the recent knowledge of bacterial and fungal degradation of PFASs, as well as the enzymes involved in the processes of transformation/degradation of PFASs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dijana Grgas
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Petrina
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tea Štefanac
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Drago Bešlo
- Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Tibela Landeka Dragičević
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lu J, Lu H, Liang D, Feng S, Li Y, Li J. A review of the occurrence, transformation, and removal technologies for the remediation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from landfill leachate. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 332:138824. [PMID: 37164196 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that pose significant environmental and human health risks. The presence of PFAS in landfill leachate is becoming an increasingly concerning issue. This article presents a comprehensive review of current knowledge and research gaps in monitoring and removing PFAS from landfill leachate. The focus is on evaluating the effectiveness and sustainability of existing removal technologies, and identifying areas where further research is needed. To achieve this goal, the paper examines the existing technologies for monitoring and treating PFAS in landfill leachate. The review emphasizes the importance of sample preparation techniques and quality assurance/quality control measures in ensuring accurate and reliable results. Then, this paper reviewed the existing technologies for removal and remediation of PFAS in landfill leachates, such as adsorption, membrane filtration, photocatalytic oxidation, electrocatalysis, biodegradation, and constructed wetlands. Additionally, the paper summarizes the factors that exhibit the performance of various treatment technologies: reaction time, experimental conditions, and removal rates. Furthermore, the paper evaluates the potential application of different remediation technologies (i.e., adsorption, membrane filtration, photocatalytic oxidation, electrocatalysis, biodegradation, and constructed wetlands, etc.) in treating landfill leachate containing PFAS and its precursors, such as fluorotelomeres like FTOH and FTSs. The review highlights the importance of considering economic, technical, and environmental factors when selecting control measures. Overall, this article aims to provide guidance for promoting environmental protection and sustainable development in the context of PFAS contamination in landfill leachate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingzhao Lu
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Processes, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Cangzhou, 061100, China.
| | - Hongwei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Processes, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Dongzhe Liang
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Processes, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - SanSan Feng
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Processes, Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yao Li
- College of Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Cangzhou, 061100, China
| | - Jingyu Li
- College of Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Cangzhou, 061100, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Buckley T, Vuong T, Karanam K, Vo PHN, Shukla P, Firouzi M, Rudolph V. Using foam fractionation to estimate PFAS air-water interface adsorption behaviour at ng/L and µg/L concentrations. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 239:120028. [PMID: 37209512 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
PFAS are biologically recalcitrant compounds that are persistent in the environment and have subsequently contaminated groundwater, landfill leachate and surface water. Due to their persistence and toxicity, there are environmental concentration limits imposed on some PFAS compounds that extend down to a few nanograms per litre and even proposals for reducing these to picogram per litre levels. Since PFAS concentrates at water-air interfaces as a result of their amphiphilic nature, this characteristic is important for the successful modelling and prediction of transport behaviour of PFAS through various systems. Here we present a procedure for using a foam fractionation method to experimentally determine the PFAS adsorption behaviour at ng/L and µg/L concentrations in the presence of salts. The equilibrium air-water adsorption coefficients for PFHxS and PFOA at different salinities and concentrations are experimentally shown to be constant across the range of PFAS concentrations investigated (approx. 0.1-100 µg/L). The adsorption isotherms may consequently be modelled by Henry or Langmuir style equations at these low concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Buckley
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4067.
| | - Thinh Vuong
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4067
| | - Kavitha Karanam
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4067
| | - Phong H N Vo
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4067
| | - Pradeep Shukla
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4067
| | - Mahshid Firouzi
- College of Engineering Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia, 2308
| | - Victor Rudolph
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4067
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Smallwood TJ, Robey NM, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Solo-Gabriele HM, Townsend TG. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) distribution in landfill gas collection systems: leachate and gas condensate partitioning. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130926. [PMID: 36764258 PMCID: PMC10641829 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
While per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been reported extensively in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill leachate,they have rarely been quantified in landfill gas or in discrete landfill liquids such as landfill gas condensate (LGC), and the potential for PFAS to partition to the condensate has not been reported. LGC and leachate collected from within gas wells known as gas well pump-out (GWP) from three MSW landfills underwent physical-chemical characterization and PFAS analysis to improve understanding of the conditions under which these liquids form and to illuminate PFAS behavior within landfills. LGC was observed to be clear liquid containing ammonia and alkalinity while GWP strongly resembled leachate - dark in color, high in chloride and ammonia. Notably, arsenic and antimony were found in concentrations exceeding regulatory thresholds by over two orders of magnitude in many LGC samples. LGC contained a lower average concentration of ΣPFAS (19,000 ng L) compared to GWP (56,000 ng L); however, LGC contained more diversity of PFAS, with 53 quantified compared to 44 in GWP. LGC contained proportionally more precursor PFAS than GWP, including more semi-volatile PFAS which are rarely measured in water matrices, such as fluorotelomer alcohols and perfluoroalkane sulfonamido ethanols. This study provides the first detailed comparison of these matrices to inform timely leachate management decisions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Smallwood
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Nicole M Robey
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Yalan Liu
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - John A Bowden
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; University of Florida, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- University of Miami, Department of Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Schaefer CE, Hooper JL, Strom LE, Abusallout I, Dickenson ERV, Thompson KA, Mohan GR, Drennan D, Wu K, Guelfo JL. Occurrence of quantifiable and semi-quantifiable poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances in united states wastewater treatment plants. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 233:119724. [PMID: 36801573 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Both quantifiable and semi-quantifiable poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were evaluated in the influent, effluent, and biosolids of 38 wastewater treatment plants. PFAS were detected in all streams at all facilities. For the means of the sums of detected, quantifiable PFAS concentrations were 98 ± 28 ng/L, 80 ± 24 ng/L, and 160,000 ± 46,000 ng/kg (dry weight basis) in the influent, effluent, and biosolids (respectively). In the aqueous influent and effluent streams this quantifiable PFAS mass was typically associated with perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs). In contrast, quantifiable PFAS in the biosolids were primarily polyfluoroalkyl substances that potentially serve as precursors to the more recalcitrant PFAAs. Results of the total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay on select influent and effluent samples showed that semi-quantified (or, unidentified) precursors accounted for a substantial portion (21 to 88%) of the fluorine mass compared to that associated with quantified PFAS, and that this fluorine precursor mass was not appreciably transformed to perfluoroalkyl acids within the WWTPs, as influent and effluent precursor concentrations via the TOP assay were statistically identical. Evaluation of semi-quantified PFAS, consistent with results of the TOP assay, showed the presence of several classes of precursors in the influent, effluent, and biosolids; perfluorophosphonic acids (PFPAs) and fluorotelomer phosphate diesters (di-PAPs) occurred in 100 and 92% of biosolid samples, respectively. Analysis of mass flows showed that, for both quantified (on a fluorine mass basis) and semi-quantified PFAS, the majority of PFAS exited WWTPs through the aqueous effluent compared to the biosolids stream. Overall, these results highlight the importance of semi-quantified PFAS precursors in WWTPs, and the need to further understand the impacts of their ultimate fate in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laurel E Strom
- CDM Smith, 14432 SE Eastgate Way Suite 100, Bellevue, WA 98007, USA
| | | | - Eric R V Dickenson
- Water Quality Research and Development, Southern Nevada Water Authority, 1299 Burkholder Blvd., Henderson, NV, 89015, USA
| | - Kyle A Thompson
- Water Quality Research and Development, Southern Nevada Water Authority, 1299 Burkholder Blvd., Henderson, NV, 89015, USA; Carollo Engineers, 8911N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78759, USA
| | - Gayathri Ram Mohan
- Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources, Lawrenceville, GA 30045, USA
| | - Dina Drennan
- CDM Smith, 14432 SE Eastgate Way Suite 100, Bellevue, WA 98007, USA
| | - Ke Wu
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Construction Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Jennifer L Guelfo
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Construction Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Smith SJ, Lauria M, Ahrens L, McCleaf P, Hollman P, Bjälkefur Seroka S, Hamers T, Arp HPH, Wiberg K. Electrochemical Oxidation for Treatment of PFAS in Contaminated Water and Fractionated Foam-A Pilot-Scale Study. ACS ES&T WATER 2023; 3:1201-1211. [PMID: 37090120 PMCID: PMC10111409 DOI: 10.1021/acsestwater.2c00660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent synthetic contaminants that are present globally in water and are exceptionally difficult to remove during conventional water treatment processes. Here, we demonstrate a practical treatment train that combines foam fractionation to concentrate PFAS from groundwater and landfill leachate, followed by an electrochemical oxidation (EO) step to degrade the PFAS. The study combined an up-scaled experimental approach with thorough characterization strategies, including target analysis, PFAS sum parameters, and toxicity testing. Additionally, the EO kinetics were successfully reproduced by a newly developed coupled numerical model. The mean total PFAS degradation over the designed treatment train reached 50%, with long- and short-chain PFAS degrading up to 86 and 31%, respectively. The treatment resulted in a decrease in the toxic potency of the water, as assessed by transthyretin binding and bacterial bioluminescence bioassays. Moreover, the extractable organofluorine concentration of the water decreased by up to 44%. Together, these findings provide an improved understanding of a promising and practical approach for on-site remediation of PFAS-contaminated water.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanne J. Smith
- Department
of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish
University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Melanie Lauria
- Department
of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius Väg 8, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department
of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish
University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Philip McCleaf
- Uppsala
Water and Waste AB, P.O. Box 1444, SE-751 44 Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Timo Hamers
- Amsterdam
Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Peter H. Arp
- Norwegian
Geotechnical Institute (NGI), P.O. Box
3930, Ullevål Stadion, NO-0806 Oslo, Norway
- Department
of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science
and Technology (NTNU), NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Karin Wiberg
- Department
of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish
University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Chen Y, Zhang H, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Evaluation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in leachate, gas condensate, stormwater and groundwater at landfills. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 318:137903. [PMID: 36669537 PMCID: PMC10536789 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.137903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), found in many consumer products, are commonly disposed of in landfills at the end of their service lives. To identify landfill liquids that should be prioritized for treatment, this study aimed to evaluate PFAS levels in different aqueous samples from landfills and identify relationships between PFAS and landfill characteristics. Twenty-six PFAS including 11 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), 7 perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs), and 8 perfluoroalkyl acid precursors (PFAA-precursors) were measured in municipal solid waste (MSW) leachate, construction and demolition debris (CDD) leachate, municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash leachate, gas condensate, stormwater, and groundwater from landfills. Based on the median, results show that PFAS levels in MSW leachate were the highest (10,000 ng L-1), CDD leachate were intermediate (6200 ng L-1), and MSWI ash leachate were the lowest (1300 ng L-1) among the leachates evaluated. PFAS levels in gas condensate (7000 ng L-1) were similar to MSW leachate. PFAS in stormwater and groundwater were low (medians were less than 500 ng L-1). Dominant subgroups included PFCAs and PFAA-precursors in all leachates. PFSAs were also found in CDD leachate, PFAA-precursors in gas condensate, and PFCAs in stormwater and groundwater. Landfill characteristics significantly correlated with ∑26PFAS included waste proportions (percentage of MSWI ash in landfill, |rs| = 0.22), operational status (active or not, |rs| = 0.27) and rainfall (30-d cumulative rainfall, |rs| = 0.39). The results from this study can be used to prioritize which landfills and which reservoir of liquids (and corresponding subgroup of PFAS) to target for PFAS management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States
| | - Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH 45268, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Rowe RK, Somuah M. Effects of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on antioxidant depletion from a high-density polyethylene geomembrane. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 328:116979. [PMID: 36502710 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116979] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
To safely contain Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in municipal solid waste landfills and contaminated soil monofills, it is necessary to understand how these substances interact with components of engineered systems designed to contain them. This paper examines the interaction between one of the most critical components of the system: a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembrane. The same geomembrane is immersed in PFAS solution and synthetic municipal solid waste leachate containing PFAS for 2.5 years, and the effects of PFAS on antioxidant depletion time is examined. The geomembrane is incubated in ovens at 85-40 °C to obtain data for Arrhenius predictions at typical landfill temperatures. When exposed to PFAS solution alone, the antioxidant depletion times are smaller than when the same geomembrane is immersed in synthetic municipal solid waste leachate alone. The combination of the two has a synergistic effect which leads to an even greater reduction in antioxidant depletion time for this geomembrane, with results showing a 68% decrease in predicted antioxidant depletion time at a typical landfill temperature of 35 °C when PFAS is present in leachate. This study highlights the need to consider the potential impact of PFAS on the service life of geomembranes used to contain them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Kerry Rowe
- Barrington Batchelor Distinguished University Professor and Canada Research Chair in Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, GeoEngineering Centre at Queen's-RMC, Queen's University, Ellis Hall, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada.
| | - M Somuah
- GeoEngineering Centre at Queen's-RMC, Queen's University, Ellis Hall, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Buckley T, Karanam K, Han H, Vo HNP, Shukla P, Firouzi M, Rudolph V. Effect of different co-foaming agents on PFAS removal from the environment by foam fractionation. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 230:119532. [PMID: 36584659 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.119532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are recalcitrant, synthetic chemicals that are ubiquitous in the environment because of their widespread use in a variety of consumer and industrial products. PFAS contamination has become an increasing issue in recent years, which needs to be urgently addressed. Foam fractionation is emerging as a potential remediation option that removes PFAS by adsorption to the surface of rising air bubbles which are removed from the system as a foam. PFAS concentrations in the environment are often not sufficient to allow for formation of a foam by itself and often a co-foaming agent is required to be added to enhance the foamability of the solution. In this study, the effect of different classes of co-foaming agents, anionic, non-ionic, zwitterionic and cationic surfactants on the removal of PFAS with varying fluorocarbon chain length from 3 to 8 in a foam fractionation process have been investigated. Evaluation of the air-water interface partitioning coefficient (k') in addition with surface tension and PFAS removal results support the contention that using a co-foaming agent with the opposite charge to the PFAS in question significantly facilitates the adsorption of PFAS to the air-water interface, enhancing the efficiency of the process. Using the non-ionic surfactant (no headgroup electrostatic interaction with PFAS), as a reference, it was observed, in terms of PFAS separation and rate of PFAS removal, that anionic co-surfactant performed worst, zwitterionic was better, and cationic co-surfactant performed best. All of the PFAS species were able to be removed below the limit of detection (0.05 µg/L) after 45 minutes of foaming time with the cationic surfactant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Buckley
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia.
| | - Kavitha Karanam
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia
| | - Han Han
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia
| | - Hoang Nhat Phong Vo
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia
| | - Pradeep Shukla
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia
| | - Mahshid Firouzi
- Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle 2308, Australia
| | - Victor Rudolph
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Li J, Xi B, Zhu G, Yuan Y, Liu W, Gong Y, Tan W. A critical review of the occurrence, fate and treatment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in landfills. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 218:114980. [PMID: 36460077 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this critical review is i) to summarize the occurrence of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in landfills; ii) to outline the environmental fate and transport of PFASs in landfills; iii) to compare the treatment technologies of PFASs in landfill leachate and remediation methods of PFASs in surrounding groundwater; iv) to identify the research gaps and suggest future research directions. In recent years, PFASs have been detected in landfills around the world, among which Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) especially Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) are mostly studied due to their long-term stability. Short-chain PFASs (<8 carbons) are more common than long-chain PFASs (≧8 carbons) in landfill leachate. PFASs in landfill leachate are eventually transported to the surrounding groundwater, surface water and soil. Some PFASs evaporate from landfills to the ambient air. To avoid the environmental and health risks of PFASs in landfills, new technologies and combined use of existing technologies have been implemented to treat PFASs in landfill leachate. Integrated remediation methods are applied to control the diffusion of PFASs in groundwater surrounding landfills. In future, the mechanisms of PFAAs precursors degradation, the correlation among PFASs in different environmental media around landfills, as well as the environmental behavior and toxic effect of combined pollutants together with PFASs in landfill leachate and surrounding groundwater should be studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Beidou Xi
- School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Ganghui Zhu
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Weijiang Liu
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Yi Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Wenbing Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Liu X, Huang X, Wei X, Zhi Y, Qian S, Li W, Yue D, Wang X. Occurrence and removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in leachates from incineration plants: A full-scale study. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 313:137456. [PMID: 36470352 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Municipal solid wastes (MSWs) contain diverse per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and these substances may leach into leachates, resulting in potential threats to the environment and human health. In this study, leachates from incineration plants with on-site treatment systems were measured for 17 PFAS species, including 13 perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) and 4 perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs). PFAS were detected in all of the raw leachates and finished effluents in concentrations ranging from 7228 to 16,565 ng L-1 and 43 to 184 ng L-1, respectively, with a greater contribution from the short-chain PFAS and PFCAs. The results showed that the existing combined processes (biological treatment and membrane filtration) were effective in decreasing PFAS in the aqueous phase with removal efficiencies over 95%. In addition, correlation analysis suggested that physical entrapment, not biodegradation, was the main means of PFAS reduction in the treatment system. These results filled a gap in the understanding of PFAS occurrence and removal in leachates from incineration plants during the full-scale treatment processes, and demonstrated those leachates were previously under-explored sources of PFAS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xingyao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wei
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yue Zhi
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Shenhua Qian
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China; Department of Ecological Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China; Department of Ecological Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Dongbei Yue
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Zhang M, Zhao X, Zhao D, Soong TY, Tian S. Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Landfills: Occurrence, Transformation and Treatment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 155:162-178. [PMID: 36379166 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Landfills have served as the final repository for > 50 % municipal solid wastes in the United States. Because of their widespread uses and persistence in the environment, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) (>4000 on the global market) are ubiquitously present in everyday consumer, commercial and industrial products, and have been widely detected in both closed (tens ng/L) and active (thousands to ten thousands ng/L) landfills due to disposal of PFAS-containing materials. Along with the decomposition of wastes in-place, PFAS can be transformed and released from the wastes into leachate and landfill gas. Consequently, it is critical to understand the occurrence and transformation of PFAS in landfills and the effectiveness of landfills, as a disposal alternative, for long-term containment of PFAS. This article presents a state-of-the-art review on the occurrence and transformation of PFAS in landfills, and possible effect of PFAS on the integrity of modern liner systems. Based on the data published from 10 countries (250 + landfills), C4-C7 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids were found predominant in the untreated landfill leachate and neutral PFAS, primarily fluorotelomer alcohols, in landfill air. The effectiveness and limitations of the conventional leachate treatment technologies and emerging technologies were also evaluated to address PFAS released into the leachate. Among conventional technologies, reverse osmosis (RO) may achieve a high removal efficiency of 90-100 % based on full-scale data, which, however, is vulnerable to the organic fouling and requires additional disposal of the concentrate. Implications of these knowledge on PFAS management at landfills are discussed and major knowledge gaps are identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Man Zhang
- CTI and Associates, Inc., 34705 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 230, Farmington Hills, MI 48331, USA.
| | - Xianda Zhao
- CTI and Associates, Inc., 34705 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 230, Farmington Hills, MI 48331, USA
| | - Dongye Zhao
- Environmental Engineering Program, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA; Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, USA.
| | - Te-Yang Soong
- CTI and Associates, Inc., 34705 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 230, Farmington Hills, MI 48331, USA
| | - Shuting Tian
- Environmental Engineering Program, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA; Institute of Environmental Science, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Minet L, Wang Z, Shalin A, Bruton TA, Blum A, Peaslee GF, Schwartz-Narbonne H, Venier M, Whitehead H, Wu Y, Diamond ML. Use and release of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in consumer food packaging in U.S. and Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2022; 24:2032-2042. [PMID: 36218049 DOI: 10.1039/d2em00166g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Numerous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) occur in consumer food packaging due to intentional and unintentional addition, despite increasing concern about their health and environmental hazards. We present a substance flow analysis framework to assess the flows of PFASs contained in plant fiber-based and plastic food packaging to the waste stream and environment. Each year between 2018 and 2020, an estimated 9000 (range 1100-25 000) and 940 (range 120-2600) tonnes per year of polymeric PFASs were used in 2% of food packaging in the U.S. and Canada, respectively. At least 11 tonnes per year of non-polymeric PFASs also moved through the food packaging life cycle. Approximately 6100 (range 690-13 000) and 700 (range 70-1600) tonnes per year of these PFASs were landfilled or entered composting facilities in the U.S. and Canada, respectively, with the potential to contaminate the environment. The results suggest that minimal food packaging contains intentionally added PFASs which, nonetheless, has the potential to contaminate the entire waste stream. Further, this indicates that PFASs are not needed for most food packaging. These results serve as a benchmark to judge the effectiveness of future industry and government initiatives to limit PFAS use in food packaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Minet
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Victoria, Canada
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada.
| | - Zhanyun Wang
- Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Technology and Society Laboratory, Switzerland
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH-Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anna Shalin
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada.
| | | | - Arlene Blum
- Green Science Policy Institute, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | | | | | - Marta Venier
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, USA
| | | | - Yan Wu
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, USA
| | - Miriam L Diamond
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada.
- School of the Environment, University of Toronto, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Qian X, Huang J, Yan C, Xiao J. Ecological restoration performance enhanced by nano zero valent iron treatment in constructed wetlands under perfluorooctanoic acid stress. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 846:157413. [PMID: 35870581 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157413] [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: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) of widespread use can enter constructed wetlands (CWs) via migration, and inevitably causes negative impacts on removal efficiencies of conventional pollutants due to its ecotoxicity. However, little attention has been paid to strengthen performance of CWs under PFOA stress. In this study, influences of nano zero valent iron (nZVI), which has been demonstrated to improve nutrients removal, were explored after exemplifying threats of PFOA to operation performance in CWs. The results revealed that 1 mg/L PFOA suppressed the nitrification capacity and phosphorus removal, and nZVI distinctly improved the removal efficiency of ammonia and total phosphorus in CWs compared to PFOA exposure group without nZVI, with the maximum increases of 3.65 % and 16.76 %. Furthermore, nZVI significantly stimulated dehydrogenase (390.64 % and 884.54 %) and urease (118.15 % and 246.92 %) activities during 0-30 d and 30-60 d in comparison to PFOA group. On the other hand, nitrifying enzymes were also promoted, in which ammonia monooxygenase increased by 30.90 % during 0-30 d, and nitrite oxidoreductase was raised by 117.91 % and 232.10 % in two stages. Besides, the content of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) under nZVI treatment was 72.98 % higher than PFOA group. Analyses of Illumina Miseq sequencing further certified that nZVI effectively improved the community richness and caused the enrichment of microorganisms related to nitrogen and phosphorus removal and EPS secreting. These results could provide valuable information for ecological restoration and decontamination performance enhancement of CWs exposed to PFOA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuwen Qian
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Juan Huang
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
| | - Chunni Yan
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Jun Xiao
- Department of Municipal Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sörengård M, Travar I, Kleja D, Ahrens L. Fly ash-based waste for ex-situ landfill stabilization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS)-contaminated soil. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL ADVANCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceja.2022.100396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
|
45
|
Saawarn B, Mahanty B, Hait S, Hussain S. Sources, occurrence, and treatment techniques of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in aqueous matrices: A comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:114004. [PMID: 35970375 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114004] [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: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of synthetic organic pollutants, have prompted concerns about their global prevalence and possible health effects. This review consolidates the most recent data on different aspects of PFAS, such as their occurrence, and prominent sources. The current literature analysis of PFAS occurrence suggests significant variation in their concentration ranging from 0.025 to 1.2 × 108 ng/L in wastewater, 0.01 to 8.9 × 105 ng/L in surface water, and <0.01 to 1.3 × 104 ng/L in groundwater globally. Since conventional treatment techniques are inadequate in remediating PFAS, innovative treatment approaches based on their removal or mineralization mechanism have been comprehensively reviewed. Advanced treatment technologies have shown degradation or removal of PFAS to be around 6 and > 99.9% in different aqueous matrices. However, due to significant drawbacks in their applicability in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), a novel treatment train approach has emerged as an effective alternative. This approach synergistically integrates multiple remediation techniques while addressing the impediments of individual treatments. Furthermore, nanofiltration (NF270) combined with electrochemical degradation has been demonstrated to be the most efficient (>98%) treatment train approach in PFAS remediation. If implemented in WWTPs, nanofiltration followed by adsorption using activated carbon is also a viable method for PFAS removal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhavini Saawarn
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar, 801 106, India
| | - Byomkesh Mahanty
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar, 801 106, India
| | - Subrata Hait
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar, 801 106, India.
| | - Sahid Hussain
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar, 801 106, India
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Chen Y, Zhang H, Liu Y, Bowden JA, Tolaymat TM, Townsend TG, Solo-Gabriele HM. Concentrations of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances before and after full-scale landfill leachate treatment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 153:110-120. [PMID: 36084369 PMCID: PMC10463282 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Many consumer and industrial products, industrial wastes and dewatered sludge from municipal wastewater treatment plants containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are disposed of in landfills at the end of their usage, with PFAS in these products leached into landfill leachates. On-site leachate treatment is one possible method to reduce PFAS in leachates. Many landfills are equipped with on-site leachate treatment systems, but few full-scale facilities have been systematically evaluated for PFAS concentration changes. The objective of this study was to evaluate a cross-section of full-scale on-site landfill treatment systems to measure changes in PFAS concentrations. Leachate samples were collected before and after treatment from 15 facilities and were evaluated for 26 PFAS, including 11 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), 7 perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs), and 8 perfluoroalkyl acid precursors (PFAA-precursors). Transformation of precursors was evaluated by the total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay. Results showed no obvious reductions in total measured PFAS (∑26PFAS) for on-site treatment systems including ponds, aeration tanks, powdered activated carbon (PAC), and sand filtration. Among evaluated on-site treatment systems, only systems fitted with reverse osmosis (RO) showed significant reductions (98-99 %) of ∑26PFAS in the permeate. Results from the TOP assay showed that untargeted PFAA-precursors converted into targeted short-chain PFCAs increasing ∑26PFAS in oxidized samples by 30 %, on average. Overall, results of this study confirm the efficacy of RO systems and suggest the presence of additional precursors beyond those measured in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Chen
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Hekai Zhang
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology & Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States
| | - Thabet M Tolaymat
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH 45268, United States
| | - Timothy G Townsend
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Liu T, Hu LX, Han Y, Dong LL, Wang YQ, Zhao JH, Liu YS, Zhao JL, Ying GG. Non-target and target screening of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in landfill leachate and impact on groundwater in Guangzhou, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 844:157021. [PMID: 35777559 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Landfills are the main destination of many urban wastes containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and PFAS may leach out from the waste and contaminate the surrounding groundwater. Here we investigated the occurrence of PFAS in leachate and surrounding groundwater from three landfills in Guangzhou, China by using a combined target and non-target approach. Non-target screening showed that a total of 651 PFAS with 96 classes were identified, including 17 legacy PFAS and 637 emerging PFAS. The quantitative target analysis of some PFAS revealed that the average removal rate of PFAS from the raw leachates were ranged between 62 % and 99 %. Statistical analysis and source analysis suggested that landfill leachate was a major source of PFAS in the groundwater within the landfills and downstream sites. The results from the combined target and non-target analyses demonstrated that PFAS in landfills could leach into the surrounding groundwater, and may affect the sustainable use of groundwater as a source of drinking water and pose a potential risk to human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Li-Xin Hu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yu Han
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Liang-Li Dong
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yu-Qing Wang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jia-Hui Zhao
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - You-Sheng Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jian-Liang Zhao
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Pütz KW, Namazkar S, Plassmann M, Benskin JP. Are cosmetics a significant source of PFAS in Europe? product inventories, chemical characterization and emission estimates. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2022; 24:1697-1707. [PMID: 35959763 DOI: 10.1039/d2em00123c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In this study, emission of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the use of cosmetics in the European Economic Area (EEA; not including Lichtenstein and Iceland) was estimated for the first time. Using the European Commission database for information on cosmetic substances and ingredients (CosIng) ∼170 structures containing at least -CF2- or -CF3 were identified as ingredients in cosmetics on the European market. These structures were then cross referenced against the Cosmetic Database "CosmEthics" to identify PFAS-containing products. Among these products, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and C9-15 fluoroalcohol phosphate were the most frequently listed PFAS ingredients. Thereafter, a sample of 45 cosmetics spanning 5 product categories was purchased in Sweden and characterized for total fluorine (TF), extractable organofluorine (EOF), and target PFAS. Using measured concentrations, the share of PFAS-containing products in each product category, sales data from Cosmetics Europe, as well as other parameters and assumptions, the annual emission of PFAS from cosmetics after use was estimated. Annual EEA-wide TF and EOF-based emissions ranged from ∼17-38 000 kg F per year and 37-5100 kg F per year, respectively, representing combined emission to wastewater and solid waste (low to high emission scenario). Sum perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid (PFCA) emissions were considerably lower (21 kg ∑PFCAs per year; high scenario). While TF- and EOF-based emissions are significant, they are considerably lower than estimates of TF emission from washing of PFAS-coated textiles in the EU. This work provides the first estimate of PFAS emissions from cosmetics and highlights the importance of using a multi-platform analytical approach for PFAS emission estimates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Shahla Namazkar
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Merle Plassmann
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Jonathan P Benskin
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Sörengård M, Bergström S, McCleaf P, Wiberg K, Ahrens L. Long-distance transport of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in a Swedish drinking water aquifer. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 311:119981. [PMID: 35988673 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS)-containing aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) at firefighting training sites (FFTS) has been linked to PFAS contamination of drinking water. This study investigated PFAS transport and distribution in an urban groundwater aquifer used for drinking water production that has been affected by PFAS-containing AFFF. Soil, sediment, surface water and drinking water were sampled. In soil (n = 12) at a FFTS with high perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) content (87% of ∑PFAS), the ∑PFAS concentration (n = 26) ranged from below detection limit to 560 ng g-1 dry weight. In groundwater (n = 28), the ∑PFAS concentration near a military airbase FFTS reached 1000 ng L-1. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified the military FFTS as the main source of PFAS contamination in drinking water wellfields >10 km down-gradient. Groundwater samples taken close to the military FFTS site showed no ∑PFAS concentration change between 2013 and 2021, while a location further down-gradient showed a transitory 99.6% decrease. Correlation analysis on PFAS composition profile indicated that this decrease was likely caused by dilution from an adjacent conflating aquifer. ∑PFAS concentration reached 15 ng L-1 (PFOS 47% and PFHxS 41% of ∑PFAS) in surface river water (n = 6) and ranged between 1 ng L-1 and 8 ng L-1 (PFHxS 73% and PFBS 17% of ∑PFAS) in drinking water (n = 4). Drinking water had lower PFAS concentrations than the wellfields due to PFAS removal at the water treatment plant. This demonstrates the importance of monitoring PFAS concentrations throughout a groundwater aquifer, to better understand variations in transport from contamination sources and resulting impacts on PFAS concentrations in drinking water extraction areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Sörengård
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sofia Bergström
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Philip McCleaf
- Uppsala Water and Waste Ltd., P.O. Box 1444, SE-751 44, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Wiberg
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Huang X, Wei X, Liu H, Li W, Shi D, Qian S, Sun W, Yue D, Wang X. Occurrence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in municipal solid waste landfill leachates from western China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:69588-69598. [PMID: 35578077 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20754-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Landfill leachate has been documented as a significant source of trace organic pollutants, comprising an expansive family of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This study presents the findings on the distribution of 13 perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) and 4 perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs) in leachates from 6 municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills in western China. The total concentrations of 17 PFAS in sampled leachates ranged from 1805 to 43,310 ng/L, and 15 compounds were detected in all samples. The short-chain compounds perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS, mean mass fraction 23.1%) and perfluorobutyric acid (PFBA, mean mass fraction 20.6%) were dominant. There were higher PFAS concentrations in leachates from operating landfills (mean: 12,194 ng/L) compared to closed landfills (mean: 2747 ng/L), but there was no significant difference between young (< 10 years) and old landfills (> 10 years). Moderate to weak correlations were observed between PFAS concentrations and leachate properties, e.g., TN, NH4+-N, TOC, and pH. This is the first report on the distribution of PFAS in landfill leachates from western China. The results have identified landfill leachate as an underestimated source of PFAS in the environment and have contributed to a more comprehensive evaluation on PFAS presence across China.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingyao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wei
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Huazu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
- Department of Ecological Sciences and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Dezhi Shi
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Shenhua Qian
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
- Department of Ecological Sciences and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Wenjie Sun
- Department of Atmospheric and Hydrologic Science, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN, 56301, USA
| | - Dongbei Yue
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment Under Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China.
| |
Collapse
|