1
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Wu C, Goodrow S, Chen H, Li M. Distinctive biotransformation and biodefluorination of 6:2 versus 5:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acids by municipal activated sludge. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 254:121431. [PMID: 38471201 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121431] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Fluorotelomer carboxylic acids (FTCAs) represent an important group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) given their high toxicity, bioaccumulation potential, and frequent detection in landfill leachates and PFAS-impacted sites. In this study, we assessed the biodegradability of 6:2 FTCA and 5:3 FTCA by activated sludges from four municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in the New York Metropolitan area. Coupling with 6:2 FTCA removal, significant fluoride release (0.56∼1.83 F-/molecule) was evident in sludge treatments during 7 days of incubation. Less-fluorinated transformation products (TPs) were formed, including 6:2 fluorotelomer unsaturated carboxylic acid (6:2 FTUCA), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), and perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA). In contrast, little fluoride (0.01∼0.09 F-/molecule) was detected in 5:3 FTCA-dosed microcosms, though 25∼68% of initially dosed 5:3 FTCA was biologically removed. This implies the dominance of "non-fluoride-releasing pathways" that may contribute to the formation of CoA adducts or other conjugates over 5:3 FTCA biotransformation. The discovery of defluorinated 5:3 FTUCA revealed the possibility of microbial attacks of the C-F bond at the γ carbon to initiate the transformation. Microbial community analysis revealed the possible involvement of 9 genera, such as Hyphomicrobium and Dechloromonas, in aerobic FTCA biotransformation. This study unraveled that biotransformation pathways of 6:2 and 5:3 FTCAs can be divergent, resulting in biodefluorination at distinctive degrees. Further research is underscored to uncover the nontarget TPs and investigate the involved biotransformation and biodefluorination mechanisms and molecular basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Sandra Goodrow
- Division of Science and Research, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Trenton, NJ, United States
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Mengyan Li
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, United States.
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2
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Yang SH, Shan L, Chu KH. Root exudates enhanced 6:2 FTOH defluorination, altered metabolite profiles and shifted soil microbiome dynamics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133651. [PMID: 38309165 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133651] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
6:2 Fluorotelomer alcohol (FTOH), one of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), is widely used as a raw material in synthesizing surfactants and fluorinated polymers. However, little is known about the role of root exudates on 6:2 FTOH biodegradation in the rhizosphere. This study examined the effects of root exudates produced from dicot (Arabidopsis thaliana) and monocot (Brachypodium distachyon) grown under different nutrient conditions (nutrient-rich, sulfur-free, and potassium-free) on 6:2 FTOH biotransformation with or without bioaugmentating agent Rhodococcus jostii RHA1. All the exudates enhanced defluorination of 6:2 FTOH by glucose-grown RHA1. Amendment of dicot or monocot root exudates, regardless of the plant growth conditions, also enhanced 6:2 FTOH biotransformation in soil microcosms. Interestingly, high levels of humic-like substances in the root exudates are linked to high extents of 6:2 FTOH defluorination. Bioaugmenting strain RHA1 along with root exudates facilitated 6:2 FTOH transformation with a production of more diverse metabolites. Microbial community analysis revealed that Rhodococcus was predominant in all strain RHA1 spiked treatments. Different root exudates changed the soil microbiome dynamics. This study provided new insight into 6:2 FTOH biotransformation with different root exudates, suggesting that root exudates amendment and bioaugmentation are promising approaches to promote rhizoremediation for PFAS-contaminated soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Hung Yang
- Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Libo Shan
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1085, USA
| | - Kung-Hui Chu
- Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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3
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Hamid N, Junaid M, Sultan M, Yoganandham ST, Chuan OM. The untold story of PFAS alternatives: Insights into the occurrence, ecotoxicological impacts, and removal strategies in the aquatic environment. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 250:121044. [PMID: 38154338 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.121044] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Due to increasing regulations on the production and consumption of legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the global use of PFAS substitutes increased tremendously, posing serious environmental risks owing to their bioaccumulation, toxicity, and lack of removal strategies. This review summarized the spatial distribution of alternative PFAS and their ecological risks in global freshwater and marine ecosystems. Further, toxicological effects of novel PFAS in various freshwater and marine species were highlighted. Moreover, degradation mechanisms for alternative PFAS removal from aquatic environments were compared and discussed. The spatial distribution showed that 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (6:2 CI-PFAES, also known as F-53B) was the most dominant emerging PFAS found in freshwater. Additionally, the highest levels of PFBS and PFBA were observed in marine waters (West Pacific Ocean). Moreover, short-chain PFAS exhibited higher concentrations than long-chain congeners. The ecological risk quotients (RQs) for phytoplankton were relatively higher >1 than invertebrates, indicating a higher risk for freshwater phytoplankton species. Similarly, in marine water, the majority of PFAS substitutes exhibited negligible risk for invertebrates and fish, and posed elevated risks for phytoplanktons. Reviewed studies showed that alternative PFAS undergo bioaccumulation and cause deleterious effects such as oxidative stress, hepatoxicity, neurotoxicity, histopathological alterations, behavioral and growth abnormalities, reproductive toxicity and metabolism defects in freshwater and marine species. Regarding PFAS treatment methods, photodegradation, photocatalysis, and adsorption showed promising degradation approaches with efficiencies as high as 90%. Finally, research gaps and future perspectives for alternative PFAS toxicological implications and their removal were offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naima Hamid
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Ocean Pollution and Ecotoxicology (OPEC) Research Group, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Muhammad Junaid
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510641, China.
| | - Marriya Sultan
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Suman Thodhal Yoganandham
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Changwon National University, Changwon, 51140, Republic of Korea
| | - Ong Meng Chuan
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Ocean Pollution and Ecotoxicology (OPEC) Research Group, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia
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4
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Fang B, Zhang Y, Chen H, Qiao B, Yu H, Zhao M, Gao M, Li X, Yao Y, Zhu L, Sun H. Stability and Biotransformation of 6:2 Fluorotelomer Sulfonic Acid, Sulfonamide Amine Oxide, and Sulfonamide Alkylbetaine in Aerobic Sludge. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:2446-2457. [PMID: 38178542 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c05506] [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: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide (6:2 FTSAm)-based compounds signify a prominent group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) widely used in contemporary aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) formulations. Despite their widespread presence, the biotransformation behavior of these compounds in wastewater treatment plants remains uncertain. This study investigated the biotransformation of 6:2 FTSAm-based amine oxide (6:2 FTNO), alkylbetaine (6:2 FTAB), and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSA) in aerobic sludge over a 100-day incubation period. The biotransformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide alkylamine (6:2 FTAA), a primary intermediate product of 6:2 FTNO, was indirectly assessed. Their stability was ranked based on the estimated half-lives (t1/2): 6:2 FTAB (no obvious products were detected) ≫ 6:2 FTSA (t1/2 ≈28.8 days) > 6:2 FTAA (t1/2 ≈11.5 days) > 6:2 FTNO (t1/2 ≈1.2 days). Seven transformation products of 6:2 FTSA and 15 products of 6:2 FTNO were identified through nontarget and suspect screening using high-resolution mass spectrometry. The transformation pathways of 6:2 FTNO and 6:2 FTSA in aerobic sludge were proposed. Interestingly, 6:2 FTSAm was hardly hydrolyzed to 6:2 FTSA and further biotransformed to perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs). Furthermore, the novel pathways for the generation of perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) from 6:2 FTSA were revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Fang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yaozhi Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Hao Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Biting Qiao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Hao Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Maosen Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Meng Gao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yiming Yao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Hongwen Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
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Khan MF, Hof C, Niemcová P, Murphy CD. Recent advances in fungal xenobiotic metabolism: enzymes and applications. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 39:296. [PMID: 37658215 PMCID: PMC10474215 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-023-03737-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Fungi have been extensively studied for their capacity to biotransform a wide range of natural and xenobiotic compounds. This versatility is a reflection of the broad substrate specificity of fungal enzymes such as laccases, peroxidases and cytochromes P450, which are involved in these reactions. This review gives an account of recent advances in the understanding of fungal metabolism of drugs and pollutants such as dyes, agrochemicals and per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), and describes the key enzymes involved in xenobiotic biotransformation. The potential of fungi and their enzymes in the bioremediation of polluted environments and in the biocatalytic production of important compounds is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Faheem Khan
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Carina Hof
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Patricie Niemcová
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Cormac D Murphy
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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6
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Khan MF, Paul Guin J, Thampi RK, Sullivan JA, Murphy CD. Enhanced removal of perfluorooctanoic acid with sequential photocatalysis and fungal treatment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:91478-91486. [PMID: 37474853 PMCID: PMC10439853 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28588-5] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we report the degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is a persistent contaminant in the environment that can severely impact human health, by exposing it to a photocatalyst, bismuth oxyiodide (BiOI), containing both Bi4O5I2 and Bi5O7I phases and a fungal biocatalyst (Cunninghamella elegans). Individually, the photocatalyst (after 3 h) and biocatalyst (after 48 h) degraded 35-40% of 100 ppm PFOA with 20-30% defluorination. There was a marked improvement in the degree of degradation (90%) and defluorination (60%) when PFOA was first photocatalytically treated, then exposed to the fungus. GC- and LC-MS analysis identified the products formed by the different treatments. Photocatalytic degradation of PFOA yielded short-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids, whereas fungal degradation yielded mainly 5:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid, which is a known inhibitor of cytochrome P450-catalysed degradation of PFAS in C. elegans. The combined treatment likely resulted in greater degradation because photocatalysis reduced the PFOA concentration without generating the inhibitory 5:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid, enabling the fungus to remove most of the remaining substrate. In addition, new fluorometabolites were identified that shed light on the initial catabolic steps involved in PFOA biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Faheem Khan
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield , Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jhimli Paul Guin
- School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
- School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Ravindranathan K Thampi
- School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - James A Sullivan
- School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Cormac D Murphy
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield , Dublin 4, Ireland.
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7
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Guo C, Ahrens L, Bertilsson S, Coolen MJL, Tang J. Riverine microbial communities impacted by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) emissions from a fluoropolymer-manufacturing plant. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 457:131803. [PMID: 37307734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread pollutants that can influence microorganisms. To unveil the effects of PFAS in natural microecosystems, a study that focused on the bacterial, fungal, and microeukaryotic communities around the PFAS point source was conducted in China. A total of 255 specific taxa were significantly different between the upstream and downstream samples, 54 of which were directly correlated with PFAS concentration. Stenotrophomonas (99.2 %), Ralstonia (90.7 %), Phoma (21.9 %), and Alternaria (97.6 %) were the dominant genera in sediment samples from the downstream communities. In addition, most of the dominant taxa were significantly correlated with PFAS concentration. Furthermore, the type of microorganism (bacteria, fungi, and microeukaryotes) and habitat (sediment or pelagic) also influence the microbial community responses to PFAS exposure. Pelagic microorganisms featured more PFAS-correlated biomarker taxa (36 pelagic microeukaryotic biomarkers and 8 pelagic bacteria biomarkers) than the sediments (9 sediment fungi biomarkers and 5 sediment bacteria biomarker). In general, around the factory, the microbial community was more variable in pelagic, summer, and microeukaryotic conditions than in other types. Attention needs to be paid to these variables in the future effect of PFAS on microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Guo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS); Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing 100049, China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stefan Bertilsson
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marco J L Coolen
- WA-Organic Isotope Geochemistry Centre, The Institute for Geoscience Research, School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Jianhui Tang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS); Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China.
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8
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Merino N, Wang N, Gao Y, Wang M, Mahendra S. Roles of various enzymes in the biotransformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (6:2 FTOH) by a white-rot fungus. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 450:131007. [PMID: 36871371 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131007] [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] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Six-carbon-chained polyfluoroalkyl substances, such as 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (6:2 FTOH), are being used to replace longer chained compounds in the manufacture of various commercial products. This study examined the effects of growth substrates and nutrients on specific intracellular and extracellular enzymes mediating 6:2 FTOH aerobic biotransformation by the white-rot fungus, Phanerochaete chrysosporium. Cellulolytic conditions with limited glucose were a suitable composition, resulting in high 5:3 FTCA yield (37 mol%), which is a key intermediate in 6:2 FTOH degradation without forming significant amounts of terminal perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs). Sulfate and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) were also essential for 5:3 FTCA production, but, at lower levels, resulted in the buildup of 5:2 sFTOH (52 mol%) and 6:2 FTUCA (20 mol%), respectively. In non-ligninolytic nutrient-rich medium, 45 mol% 6:2 FTOH was transformed but produced only 12.7 mol% 5:3 FTCA. Enzyme activity studies imply that cellulolytic conditions induce the intracellular cytochrome P450 system. In contrast, extracellular peroxidase synthesis is independent of 6:2 FTOH exposure. Gene expression studies further verified that peroxidases were relevant in catalyzing the downstream transformations from 5:3 FTCA. Collectively, the identification of nutrients and enzymatic systems will help elucidate underlying mechanisms and biogeochemical conditions favorable for fungal transformation of PFCA precursors in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Merino
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Ning Wang
- DuPont Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, United States
| | - Yifan Gao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Shaily Mahendra
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States.
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9
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Grgas D, Petrina A, Štefanac T, Bešlo D, Landeka Dragičević T. A Review: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances-Biological Degradation. TOXICS 2023; 11:toxics11050446. [PMID: 37235260 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11050446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), highly stable synthetic organic compounds with multiple carbon-fluorine bonds, are emerging as environmental contaminants, toxic, bioaccumulative, and environmentally persistent. PFASs are strongly resistant to biological and chemical degradation, and therefore PFASs present a challenge to researchers and scientists for a better understanding and application of remediation methods and biodegradation of PFASs and have become subject to strict government regulations. The review summarizes the recent knowledge of bacterial and fungal degradation of PFASs, as well as the enzymes involved in the processes of transformation/degradation of PFASs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dijana Grgas
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Petrina
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tea Štefanac
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Drago Bešlo
- Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Tibela Landeka Dragičević
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Pierotti Str. 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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10
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Li Z, Luo ZM, Huang Y, Wang JW, Ouyang G. Recent trends in degradation strategies of PFOA/PFOS substitutes. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 315:137653. [PMID: 36581124 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137653] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The global elimination and restriction of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), respectively, have urged manufacturers to shift production to their substitutes which still pose threat to the environment with their bioaccumulation, toxicity and migration issues. In this context, efficient technologies and systematic mechanistic studies on the degradation of PFOA/PFOS substitutes are highly desirable. In this review, we summarize the progress in degrading PFOA/PFOS substitutes, including four kinds of mainstream methods. The pros and cons of the present technologies are analyzed, which renders the discussion of future prospects on rational optimizations. Additional discussion is made on the differences in the degradation of various kinds of substitutes, which is compared to the PFOA/PFOS and derives designing principles for more degradable F-containing compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizi Li
- KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Zhi-Mei Luo
- KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yanjun Huang
- KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jia-Wei Wang
- KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Gangfeng Ouyang
- KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
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11
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Khan MF, Murphy CD. Fluorotelomer alcohols are efficiently biotransformed by Cunninghamella elegans. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:23613-23623. [PMID: 36327087 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23901-0] [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] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cunninghamella elegans is a well-studied fungus that biotransforms a range of xenobiotics owing to impressive cytochrome P450 (CYP) activity. In this paper, we report the biotransformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (6:2 FTOH) by the fungus, yielding a range of fluorinated products that were detectable by fluorine-19 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (19F NMR), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Upon incubation with the pre-grown cultures, the substrate (100 mg/L) was completely consumed within 48 h, which is faster biotransformation than other fungi that have hitherto been studied. The main metabolite formed was the 5:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (5:3 FTCA), which accumulated in the culture supernatant. When the cytochrome P450 inhibitor 1-aminobenzotriazole was included in the culture flasks, there was no biotransformation of 6:2 FTOH, indicating that these enzymes are key to the catalysis. Furthermore, when exogenous 5:3 FTCA was added to the fungus, the standard biotransformation of the drug flurbiprofen was inhibited, strongly suggesting that the main fluorotelomer alcohol biotransformation product inhibits CYP activity and accounts for its accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Faheem Khan
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Cormac D Murphy
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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12
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Tenorio R, Maizel AC, Schaefer CE, Higgins CP, Strathmann TJ. Application of High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry to Evaluate UV-Sulfite-Induced Transformations of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) in Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:14774-14787. [PMID: 36162863 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c03228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
UV-sulfite has been shown to effectively degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in single-solute experiments. We recently reported treatment of 15 PFASs, including perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs), perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), and fluorotelomer sulfonic acids (FTSs), detected in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) using high-resolution liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) targeted analysis. Here, we extend the analysis within those original reaction solutions to include the wider set of PFASs in AFFF for which reactivity is largely unknown by applying recently established LC-QTOF-MS suspect screening and semiquantitative analysis protocols. Sixty-eight additional PFASs were detected (15 targeted + 68 suspect screening = 83 PFASs) with semiquantitative analysis, and their behavior was binned on the basis of (1) detection in untreated AFFF, (2) PFAS photogeneration, and (3) reactivity. These 68 structures account for an additional 20% of the total fluorine content in the AFFF (targeted + suspect screening = 57% of total fluorine content). Structure-reactivity trends were also revealed. During treatment, transformations of highly reactive structures containing sulfonamide (-SO2N-) and reduced sulfur groups (e.g., -S- and -SO-) adjacent to the perfluoroalkyl [F(CF2)n-] or fluorotelomer [F(CF2)n(CH2)2-] chain are likely sources of PFCA, PFSA, and FTS generation previously reported during the early stages of reactions. The results also show the character of headgroup moieties adjacent to the F(CF2)n-/F(CF2)n(CH2)2- chain (e.g., sulfur oxidation state, sulfonamide type, and carboxylic acids) and substitution along the F(CF2)n- chain (e.g., H-, ketone, and ether) together may determine chain length-dependent reactivity trends. The results highlight the importance of monitoring PFASs outside conventional targeted analytical methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Tenorio
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 205 North Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois Street, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Andrew C Maizel
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois Street, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
| | - Charles E Schaefer
- CDM Smith, 110 Fieldcrest Avenue, Edison, New Jersey 08837, United States
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois Street, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Timothy J Strathmann
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, 1500 Illinois Street, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
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13
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FitzGerald LI, Olorunyomi JF, Singh R, Doherty CM. Towards Solving the PFAS Problem: The Potential Role of Metal-Organic Frameworks. CHEMSUSCHEM 2022; 15:e202201136. [PMID: 35843909 PMCID: PMC9804497 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202201136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of recalcitrant molecules that have been used since the 1940s in a variety of applications. They are now linked to a host of negative health outcomes and are extremely resistant to degradation under environmental conditions. Currently, membrane technologies or adsorbents are used to remediate contaminated water. These techniques are either inefficient at capturing smaller PFAS molecules, have high energy demands, or result in concentrated waste that must be incinerated at high temperatures. This Review focuses on what role metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) may play in addressing the PFAS problem. Specifically, how the unique properties of MOFs such as their well-defined pore sizes, ultra-high internal surface area, and tunable surface chemistry may be a sustainable solution for PFAS contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ruhani Singh
- CSIRO ManufacturingPrivate Bag 10Clayton South3169VictoriaAustralia
| | - Cara M. Doherty
- CSIRO ManufacturingPrivate Bag 10Clayton South3169VictoriaAustralia
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14
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Qi Y, Cao H, Pan W, Wang C, Liang Y. The role of dissolved organic matter during Per- and Polyfluorinated Substance (PFAS) adsorption, degradation, and plant uptake: A review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 436:129139. [PMID: 35605500 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The negative effects of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on the environment and health have recently attracted much attention. This article reviews the influence of soil- and water-derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) on the environmental fate of PFAS. In addition to being co-adsorped with PFAS to increase the adsorption capacity, DOM competes with PFAS for adsorption sites on the surface of the material, thereby reducing the removal rate of PFAS or increasing water solubility, which facilitates desorption of PFAS in the soil. It can quench some active species and inhibit the degradation of PFAS. In contrast, before DOM in water self-degrades, DOM has a greater promoting effect on the degradation of PFAS because DOM can complex with iron, iodine, among others, and act as an electron shuttle to enhance electron transfer. In soil aggregates, DOM can prevent microorganisms from being poisoned by direct exposure to PFAS. In addition, DOM increases the desorption of PFAS in plant root soil, affecting its bioavailability. In general, DOM plays a bidirectional role in adsorption, degradation, and plant uptake of PFAS, which depends on the types and functional groups of DOM. It is necessary to enhance the positive role of DOM in reducing the environmental risks posed by PFAS. In future, attention should be paid to the DOM-induced reduction of PFAS and development of a green and efficient continuous defluorination technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwen Qi
- 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, China
| | - Huimin Cao
- 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, China
| | - Weijie Pan
- 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, China
| | - Cuiping Wang
- 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, China.
| | - Yanna Liang
- Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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15
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Tang Z, Song X, Xu M, Yao J, Ali M, Wang Q, Zeng J, Ding X, Wang C, Zhang Z, Liu X. Effects of co-occurrence of PFASs and chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons on microbial communities in groundwater: A field study. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 435:128969. [PMID: 35472535 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons (CAHs) co-contamination on the microbial community in the field have not been studied. In this study, we evaluated the presence of PFASs and CAHs in groundwater collected from a fluorochemical plant (FCP), and carried out Illumina MiSeq sequencing to understand the impact of mixed PFASs and CAHs on the indigenous microbial community. The sum concentrations of 20 PFASs in FCP groundwater ranged from 2.05 to 317.40 μg/L, and the highest PFOA concentration was observed in the deep aquifer (60 m below ground surface), co-contaminated by dense non-aqueous-phase liquid (DNAPL). The existence of PFASs and CAHs co-contamination in groundwater resulted in a considerable decrease in the diversity of microbial communities, while the abundance of metabolisms associated with contaminants biodegradation has increased significantly compared to the background wells. Furthermore, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas and Arthrobacter were the dominant genera in PFASs and CAHs co-contaminated groundwater. The presence of high concentrations of PFASs and CAHs has been positively associated with the genus of Citreitalea. Finally, geochemical parameters, such as ORP, sulfate and nitrate were the key factors to shape up the structure of the microbial community and sources to rich the abundance of the potential functional bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwen Tang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xin Song
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Minmin Xu
- Shandong Academy of Environmental Sciences Co., LTD, Jinan 250013, China
| | - Jin Yao
- Zhongke Hualu Soil Remediation Engineering Co., LTD, Dezhou 253500, China
| | - Mukhtiar Ali
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jun Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Congjun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhuanxia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
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16
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Yi S, Harding-Marjanovic KC, Houtz EF, Antell E, Olivares C, Nichiporuk RV, Iavarone AT, Zhuang WQ, Field JA, Sedlak DL, Alvarez-Cohen L. Biotransformation of 6:2 Fluorotelomer Thioether Amido Sulfonate in Aqueous Film-Forming Foams under Nitrate-Reducing Conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:10646-10655. [PMID: 35861429 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite the prevalence of nitrate reduction in groundwater, the biotransformation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under nitrate-reducing conditions remains mostly unknown compared with aerobic or strong reducing conditions. We constructed microcosms under nitrate-reducing conditions to simulate the biotransformation occurring at groundwater sites impacted by aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs). We investigated the biotransformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer thioether amido sulfonate (6:2 FtTAoS), a principal PFAS constituent of several AFFF formulations using both quantitative liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and qualitative high-resolution mass spectrometry analyses. Our results reveal that the biotransformation rates of 6:2 FtTAoS under nitrate-reducing conditions were about 10 times slower than under aerobic conditions, but about 2.7 times faster than under sulfate-reducing conditions. Although minimal production of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate and the terminal perfluoroalkyl carboxylate, perfluorohexanoate was observed, fluorotelomer thioether and sulfinyl compounds were identified in the aqueous samples. Evidence for the formation of volatile PFAS was obtained by mass balance analysis using the total oxidizable precursor assay and detection of 6:2 fluorotelomer thiol by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Our results underscore the complexity of PFAS biotransformation and the interactions between redox conditions and microbial biotransformation activities, contributing to the better elucidation of PFAS environmental fate and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Yi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Katie C Harding-Marjanovic
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Erika F Houtz
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Edmund Antell
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Christopher Olivares
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Samueli Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Rita V Nichiporuk
- The California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Anthony T Iavarone
- The California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Wei-Qin Zhuang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jennifer A Field
- Department of Molecular and Environmental Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-4003, United States
| | - David L Sedlak
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Lisa Alvarez-Cohen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Earth and Environmental Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Cyclotron Rd., Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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17
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Sidnell T, Wood RJ, Hurst J, Lee J, Bussemaker MJ. Sonolysis of per- and poly fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): A meta-analysis. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2022; 87:105944. [PMID: 35688120 PMCID: PMC9184745 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2022.105944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Human ingestion of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from contaminated food and water is linked to the development of several cancers, birth defects and other illnesses. The complete mineralisation of aqueous PFAS by ultrasound (sonolysis) into harmless inorganics has been demonstrated in many studies. However, the range and interconnected nature of reaction parameters (frequency, power, temperature etc.), and variety of reaction metrics used, limits understanding of degradation mechanisms and parametric trends. This work summarises the state-of-the-art for PFAS sonolysis, considering reaction mechanisms, kinetics, intermediates, products, rate limiting steps, reactant and product measurement techniques, and effects of co-contaminants. The meta-analysis showed that mid-high frequency (100 - 1,000 kHz) sonolysis mechanisms are similar, regardless of reaction conditions, while the low frequency (20 - 100 kHz) mechanisms are specific to oxidative species added, less well understood, and generally slower than mid-high frequency mechanisms. Arguments suggest that PFAS degradation occurs via adsorption (not absorption) at the bubble interface, followed by headgroup cleavage. Further mechanistic steps toward mineralisation remain to be proven. For the first time, complete stoichiometric reaction equations are derived for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) sonolysis, which add H2 as a reaction product and consider CO an intermediate. Fluorinated intermediate products are derived for common, and more novel PFAS, and a naming system proposed for novel perfluoroether carboxylates. The meta-analysis also revealed the transition between pseudo first and zero order PFOA/S kinetics commonly occurs at 15 - 40 µM. Optimum values of; ultrasonic frequency (300 - 500 kHz), concentration (>15 - 40 μM), temperature (≈20 °C), and pH range (3.2 - 4) for rapid PFOX degradation are derived by evaluation of prior works, while optimum values for the dilution factor applied to PFAS containing firefighting foams and applied power require further work. Rate limiting steps are debated and F- is shown to be rate enhancing, while SO42- and CO2 by products are theorised to be rate limiting. Sonolysis was compared to other PFAS destructive technologies and shown to be the only treatment which fully mineralises PFAS, degrades different PFAS in order of decreasing hydrophobicity, is parametrically well studied, and has low-moderate energy requirements (several kWh g-1 PFAS). It is concluded that sonolysis of PFAS in environmental samples would be well incorporated within a treatment train for improved efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Sidnell
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom
| | - Richard James Wood
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jake Hurst
- ARCADIS, 1 Whitehall Riverside, Leeds LS1 4BN, United Kingdom
| | - Judy Lee
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom
| | - Madeleine J Bussemaker
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, United Kingdom.
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18
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Yu Y, Che S, Ren C, Jin B, Tian Z, Liu J, Men Y. Microbial Defluorination of Unsaturated Per- and Polyfluorinated Carboxylic Acids under Anaerobic and Aerobic Conditions: A Structure Specificity Study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:4894-4904. [PMID: 35373561 PMCID: PMC9465985 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c05509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The recently discovered microbial reductive defluorination of two C6 branched and unsaturated fluorinated carboxylic acids (FCAs) provided valuable insights into the environmental fate of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and potential bioremediation strategies. However, a systematic investigation is needed to further demonstrate the role of C═C double bonds in the biodegradability of unsaturated PFASs. Here, we examined the structure-biodegradability relationships of 13 FCAs, including nine commercially available unsaturated FCAs and four structurally similar saturated ones, in an anaerobic defluorinating enrichment and an activated sludge community. The anaerobic and aerobic transformation/defluorination pathways were elucidated. The results showed that under anaerobic conditions, the α,β-unsaturation is crucial for FCA biotransformation via reductive defluorination and/or hydrogenation pathways. With sp2 C-F bonds being substituted by C-H bonds, the reductive defluorination became less favorable than hydrogenation. Moreover, for the first time, we reported enhanced degradability and defluorination capability of specific unsaturated FCA structures with trifluoromethyl (-CF3) branches at the α/β-carbon. Such FCA structures can undergo anaerobic abiotic defluorination in the presence of reducing agents and significant aerobic microbial defluorination. Given the diverse applications and emerging concerns of fluorochemicals, this work not only advances the fundamental understanding of the fate of unsaturated PFASs in natural and engineered environments but also may provide insights into the design of readily degradable fluorinated alternatives to existing PFAS compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaochun Yu
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, A235 Bourns Hall, 3401 Watkins Drive, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Shun Che
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, A235 Bourns Hall, 3401 Watkins Drive, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Changxu Ren
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, A235 Bourns Hall, 3401 Watkins Drive, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Bosen Jin
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, A235 Bourns Hall, 3401 Watkins Drive, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Zhenyu Tian
- College
of Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Jinyong Liu
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, A235 Bourns Hall, 3401 Watkins Drive, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Yujie Men
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, A235 Bourns Hall, 3401 Watkins Drive, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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19
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Zhang Z, Sarkar D, Biswas JK, Datta R. Biodegradation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): A review. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 344:126223. [PMID: 34756980 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of chemicals widely manufactured for industrial and commercial applications in the past decades due to their remarkable stability as well as hydrophobic and lipophobic nature. PFAS species have been recognized as emerging environmental contaminants of concern due to their toxicity and environmental persistence, thereby attracting intensive research seeking effective technologies for their removal from the environment. The objective of this review is to provide a thorough analysis of the biodegradation of PFAS in multiple environmental matrices and offer a future outlook. By discussing targeted PFAS species, degradation intermediates, degradation efficiencies, and microbial species, a comprehensive summary of the known microbial species and their degradation pathways are presented. The biodegradation pathways for different types of PFAS species are summarized in two major categories, biodegradation with and without the cleavage of C-F bond. Existing uncertainties and future research directions for PFAS biodegradation are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiming Zhang
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Ocean Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA
| | - Dibyendu Sarkar
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Ocean Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA.
| | - Jayanta Kumar Biswas
- Enviromicrobiology, Ecotoxicology and Ecotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Ecological Studies, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia 741235, West Bengal, India; International Centre for Ecological Engineering, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, West Bengal, India
| | - Rupali Datta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
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Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Integrated Crop-Livestock Systems: Environmental Exposure and Human Health Risks. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312550. [PMID: 34886275 PMCID: PMC8657007 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly persistent synthetic organic contaminants that can cause serious human health concerns such as obesity, liver damage, kidney cancer, hypertension, immunotoxicity and other human health issues. Integrated crop–livestock systems combine agricultural crop production with milk and/or meat production and processing. Key sources of PFAS in these systems include firefighting foams near military bases, wastewater sludge and industrial discharge. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances regularly move from soils to nearby surface water and/or groundwater because of their high mobility and persistence. Irrigating crops or managing livestock for milk and meat production using adjacent waters can be detrimental to human health. The presence of PFAS in both groundwater and milk have been reported in dairy production states (e.g., Wisconsin and New Mexico) across the United States. Although there is a limit of 70 parts per trillion of PFAS in drinking water by the U.S. EPA, there are not yet regional screening guidelines for conducting risk assessments of livestock watering as well as the soil and plant matrix. This systematic review includes (i) the sources, impacts and challenges of PFAS in integrated crop–livestock systems, (ii) safety measures and protocols for sampling soil, water and plants for determining PFAS concentration in exposed integrated crop–livestock systems and (iii) the assessment, measurement and evaluation of human health risks related to PFAS exposure.
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21
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Uriakhil MA, Sidnell T, De Castro Fernández A, Lee J, Ross I, Bussemaker M. Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substance remediation from soil and sorbents: A review of adsorption behaviour and ultrasonic treatment. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 282:131025. [PMID: 34118624 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are xenobiotics, present at variable concentrations in soils and groundwater worldwide. Some of the current remediation techniques being researched or applied for PFAS-impacted soils involve solidification-stabilisation, soil washing, excavation and disposal to landfill, on site or in situ smouldering, thermal desorption, ball milling and incineration. Given the large volumes of soil requiring treatment, there is a need for a more environmentally friendly technique to remove and treat PFASs from soils. Sorbents such as granular/powdered activated carbon, ion exchange resins and silicas are used in water treatment to remove PFAS. In this work, PFAS adsorption mechanisms and the effect of pore size, pH and organic matter on adsorption efficacy are discussed. Then, adsorption of PFAS to soils and sorbents is considered when assessing the viability of remediation techniques. Sonication-aided treatment was predicted to be an effective removal technique for PFAS from a solid phase, and the effect of varying frequency, power and particle size on the effectiveness of the desorption process is discussed. Causes and mitigation strategies for possible cavitation-induced particle erosion during ultrasound washing are also identified. Following soil remediation, degrading the extracted PFAS using sonolysis in a water-organic solvent mixture is discussed. The implications for future soil remediation and sorbent regeneration based on the findings in this study are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Angaar Uriakhil
- University of Surrey, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Surrey, England, GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Tim Sidnell
- University of Surrey, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Surrey, England, GU2 7XH, UK
| | | | - Judy Lee
- University of Surrey, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Surrey, England, GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Ian Ross
- Tetra Tech, Quay West at MediaCityUK, Trafford Wharf Rd, Trafford Park, Manchester, England, M17 1HH, UK
| | - Madeleine Bussemaker
- University of Surrey, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Surrey, England, GU2 7XH, UK.
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22
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Che S, Jin B, Liu Z, Yu Y, Liu J, Men Y. Structure-Specific Aerobic Defluorination of Short-Chain Fluorinated Carboxylic Acids by Activated Sludge Communities. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2021; 8:668-674. [PMID: 35316934 PMCID: PMC8936751 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.1c00511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of manmade chemicals that impose emerging environmental concerns. Among them, short-chain per- and polyfluorinated carboxylic acids represent an important subgroup used as building blocks of biologically active chemicals and functional materials. Some are also considered PFAS alternatives, and some could be byproducts of the physicochemical treatment of PFAS. However, little is known about the environmental fate of short-chain fluorinated carboxylic acids (FCAs) and their defluorination/transformation by microorganisms. To fill the knowledge gap, we investigated the structure-reactivity relationships in the aerobic defluorination of C3-C5 FCAs by activated sludge communities. Four structures exhibited greater than 20% defluorination, with 3,3,3-trifluoropropionic acid being almost completely defluorinated. We further analyzed the defluorination/transformation pathways and inferred the structures susceptible to aerobic microbial defluorination. We also demonstrated that the defluorination was via cometabolism. The findings advance the fundamental understanding of aerobic microbial defluorination and help assess the environmental fate of PFAS. Since some short-chain PFAS, such as 3,3,3-trifluoropropionic acid, are the incomplete defluorination byproducts of advanced reduction processes, their defluorination by activated sludge communities sheds light on the development of cost-effective chemical-biological PFAS treatment train systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Che
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Bosen Jin
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Zekun Liu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Yaochun Yu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Jinyong Liu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Yujie Men
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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Zhu Y, Jia Y, Liu M, Yang L, Yi S, Feng X, Zhu L. Mechanisms for tissue-specific accumulation and phase I/II transformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer phosphate diester in earthworm (M. guillelmi). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 151:106451. [PMID: 33647835 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs) are high production volume surfactants used in the food contact paper and packaging industries. They are prone to partition to soil due to their strong hydrophobicity and may biotransform into recalcitrant perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs); little is known about their fate and behaviors in terrestrial organisms. Here, geophagous earthworms (M. guillelmi) were exposed to 6:2 fluorotelomer phosphate diester (6:2 diPAP)-contaminated soil to examine tissue-specific accumulation and biotransformation. 6:2 diPAP quickly accumulated in M. guillelmi with the highest biota-soil-accumulation factor (BSAF) in the gut, followed by the organs, skin, and body fluid. The total amount of 6:2 diPAP accumulated in the skin was the highest due to its high mass content. These results indicated that skin absorption and gut processes were two major pathways for earthworms to accumulate 6:2 diPAP from soil. In vitro desorption experiments indicated that the gut digestion fluid greatly promoted the desorption of 6:2 diPAP from the soil and enhanced its bioavailability. Degradation of 6:2 diPAP in the soil was stimulated when the earthworm appeared. In contrast to the soil, a more extensive transformation occurred in the earthworm. Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) was the primary phase Ⅰ product, followed by perfluoropentyl propanoic acid (FPePA), perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), 2-perfluorohexyl ethanoic acid (FHEA), and perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA), which confirmed the occurrence of α- and β-oxidation in earthworms. For the first time, a new phase II product, namely, a 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol sulfate conjugate, was identified in earthworms at unexpectedly high levels, which might be the primary way earthworms eliminate 6:2 diPAP. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments suggested that 6:2 diPAP experienced faster and more extensive biotransformation in the gut than in the organs. This work sheds light on the bioaccumulation and biotransformation of 6:2 diPAP in terrestrial invertebrates, providing strong evidence of indirect sources of PFCAs in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumin Zhu
- 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 300350, PR China
| | - Yibo Jia
- 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 300350, PR China
| | - Menglin Liu
- 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 300350, 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 300350, PR China
| | - Shujun Yi
- 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 300350, PR China
| | - Xuemin Feng
- 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 300350, PR China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- 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 300350, PR China.
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Sharifan H, Bagheri M, Wang D, Burken JG, Higgins CP, Liang Y, Liu J, Schaefer CE, Blotevogel J. Fate and transport of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the vadose zone. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 771:145427. [PMID: 33736164 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a heterogeneous group of persistent organic pollutants that have been detected in various environmental compartments around the globe. Emerging research has revealed the preferential accumulation of PFASs in shallow soil horizons, particularly at sites impacted by firefighting activities, agricultural applications, and atmospheric deposition. Once in the vadose zone, PFASs can sorb to soil, accumulate at interfaces, become volatilized, be taken up in biota, or leach to the underlying aquifer. At the same time, polyfluorinated precursor species may transform into highly recalcitrant perfluoroalkyl acids, changing their chemical identity and thus transport behavior along the way. In this review, we critically discuss the current state of the knowledge and aim to interconnect the complex processes that control the fate and transport of PFASs in the vadose zone. Furthermore, we identify key challenges and future research needs. Consequently, this review may serve as an interdisciplinary guide for the risk assessment and management of PFAS-contaminated sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Sharifan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Majid Bagheri
- Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Department, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, USA
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C3, Canada
| | - Joel G Burken
- Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Department, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, USA
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Yanna Liang
- Department of Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Jinxia Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C3, Canada
| | | | - Jens Blotevogel
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
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Zhang L, Johnson NW, Liu Y, Miao Y, Chen R, Chen H, Jiang Q, Li Z, Dong Y, Mahendra S. Biodegradation mechanisms of sulfonamides by Phanerochaete chrysosporium - Luffa fiber system revealed at the transcriptome level. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 266:129194. [PMID: 33316476 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The overuse of antibiotics and subsequent enrichment of antibiotic resistant microbes in the natural and built environments is a severe threat to global public health. In this study, a Phanerochaete chrysosporium fungal-luffa fiber system was found to efficiently biodegrade two sulfonamides, sulfadimethoxine (SDM) and sulfadizine (SDZ), in cow urine wastewater. Biodegradation pathways were proposed on the basis of key metabolites identified using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-QqTOF-MS). Transcriptomic, metabolomic, and free radical analyses were performed to explore the functional groups and detailed molecular mechanisms of SDM and SDZ degradation. A total of 27 UniGene clusters showed significant differences between luffa fiber and luffa fiber-free systems, which were significantly correlated to cellulose catabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and oxidoreductase activity. Carbohydrate-active enzymes and oxidoreductases appear to play particularly important roles in SDM and SDZ degradation. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy revealed the generation and evolution of OH and R during the biodegradation of SDM and SDZ, suggesting that beyond enzymatic degradation, SDM and SDZ were also transformed through a free radical pathway. Luffa fiber also acts as a co-substrate to improve the activity of enzymes for the degradation of SDM and SDZ. This research provides a potential strategy for removing SDM and SDZ from agricultural and industrial wastewater using fungal-luffa fiber systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100000, China.
| | - Nicholas W Johnson
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Yun Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; National Engineering Laboratory for Site Remediation Technologies, Beijing, 100015, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100000, China.
| | - Yu Miao
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Ruihuan Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100000, China.
| | - Hong Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100000, China.
| | - Qian Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100000, China.
| | - Zhongpei Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100000, China.
| | - Yuanhua Dong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100000, China.
| | - Shaily Mahendra
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Zhang W, Pang S, Lin Z, Mishra S, Bhatt P, Chen S. Biotransformation of perfluoroalkyl acid precursors from various environmental systems: advances and perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 272:115908. [PMID: 33190976 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are widely used in industrial production and daily life because of their unique physicochemical properties, such as their hydrophobicity, oleophobicity, surface activity, and thermal stability. Perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs) and perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) are the most studied PFAAs due to their global occurrence. PFAAs are environmentally persistent, toxic, and the long-chain homologs are also bioaccumulative. Exposure to PFAAs may arise directly from emission or indirectly via the environmental release and degradation of PFAA precursors. Precursors themselves or their conversion intermediates can present deleterious effects, including hepatotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, developmental toxicity, and genetic toxicity. Therefore, exposure to PFAA precursors constitutes a potential hazard for environmental contamination. In order to comprehensively evaluate the environmental fate and effects of PFAA precursors and their connection with PFSAs and PFCAs, we review environmental biodegradability studies carried out with microbial strains, activated sludge, plants, and earthworms over the past decade. In particular, we review perfluorooctyl-sulfonamide-based precursors, including perfluroooctane sulfonamide (FOSA) and its N-ethyl derivative (EtFOSA), N-ethyl perfluorooctane sulfonamido ethanol (EtFOSE), and EtFOSE-based phosphate diester (DiSAmPAP). Fluorotelomerization-based precursors are also reviewed, including fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOH), fluorotelomer sulfonates (FTSA), and a suite of their transformation products. Though limited information is currently available on zwitterionic PFAS precursors, a preliminary review of data available for 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide betaine (FTAB) was also conducted. Furthermore, we update and refine the recent knowledge on biotransformation strategies with a focus on metabolic pathways and mechanisms involved in the biotransformation of PFAA precursors. The biotransformation of PFAA precursors mainly involves the cleavage of carbon-fluorine (C-F) bonds and the degradation of non-fluorinated functional groups via oxidation, dealkylation, and defluorination to form shorter-chained PFAAs. Based on the existing research, the current problems and future research directions on the biotransformation of PFAA precursors are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Shimei Pang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Ziqiu Lin
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Sandhya Mishra
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Pankaj Bhatt
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Shaohua Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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27
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Shahsavari E, Rouch D, Khudur LS, Thomas D, Aburto-Medina A, Ball AS. Challenges and Current Status of the Biological Treatment of PFAS-Contaminated Soils. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 8:602040. [PMID: 33490051 PMCID: PMC7817812 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.602040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are Synthetic Organic Compounds (SOCs) which are of current concern as they are linked to a myriad of adverse health effects in mammals. They can be found in drinking water, rivers, groundwater, wastewater, household dust, and soils. In this review, the current challenge and status of bioremediation of PFAs in soils was examined. While several technologies to remove PFAS from soil have been developed, including adsorption, filtration, thermal treatment, chemical oxidation/reduction and soil washing, these methods are expensive, impractical for in situ treatment, use high pressures and temperatures, with most resulting in toxic waste. Biodegradation has the potential to form the basis of a cost-effective, large scale in situ remediation strategy for PFAS removal from soils. Both fungal and bacterial strains have been isolated that are capable of degrading PFAS; however, to date, information regarding the mechanisms of degradation of PFAS is limited. Through the application of new technologies in microbial ecology, such as stable isotope probing, metagenomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics there is the potential to examine and identify the biodegradation of PFAS, a process which will underpin the development of any robust PFAS bioremediation technology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Duncan Rouch
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Leadin S Khudur
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Duncan Thomas
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Andrew S Ball
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia.,ARC Training Centre for the Transformation of Australia's Biosolids Resource, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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28
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Bolan N, Sarkar B, Yan Y, Li Q, Wijesekara H, Kannan K, Tsang DCW, Schauerte M, Bosch J, Noll H, Ok YS, Scheckel K, Kumpiene J, Gobindlal K, Kah M, Sperry J, Kirkham MB, Wang H, Tsang YF, Hou D, Rinklebe J. Remediation of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contaminated soils - To mobilize or to immobilize or to degrade? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 401:123892. [PMID: 33113753 PMCID: PMC8025151 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are synthetic chemicals, which are introduced to the environment through anthropogenic activities. Aqueous film forming foam used in firefighting, wastewater effluent, landfill leachate, and biosolids are major sources of PFAS input to soil and groundwater. Remediation of PFAS contaminated solid and aqueous media is challenging, which is attributed to the chemical and thermal stability of PFAS and the complexity of PFAS mixtures. In this review, remediation of PFAS contaminated soils through manipulation of their bioavailability and destruction is presented. While the mobilizing amendments (e.g., surfactants) enhance the mobility and bioavailability of PFAS, the immobilizing amendments (e.g., activated carbon) decrease their bioavailability and mobility. Mobilizing amendments can be applied to facilitate the removal of PFAS though soil washing, phytoremediation, and complete destruction through thermal and chemical redox reactions. Immobilizing amendments are likely to reduce the transfer of PFAS to food chain through plant and biota (e.g., earthworm) uptake, and leaching to potable water sources. Future studies should focus on quantifying the potential leaching of the mobilized PFAS in the absence of removal by plant and biota uptake or soil washing, and regular monitoring of the long-term stability of the immobilized PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanthi Bolan
- The Global Centre for Environmental Remediation, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom
| | - Yubo Yan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiao Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, People's Republic of China
| | - Hasintha Wijesekara
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, 70140, Sri Lanka
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Daniel C W Tsang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Marina Schauerte
- Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Institute of Soil Engineering, Waste- and Water-Management, Faculty of Architecture und Civil Engineering, University of Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Julian Bosch
- INTRAPORE GmbH, Advanced In Situ Groundwater Remediation, Essen, Leipzig, Mailand, Katernberger Str. 107, 45327 Essen, Germany
| | - Hendrik Noll
- INTRAPORE GmbH, Advanced In Situ Groundwater Remediation, Essen, Leipzig, Mailand, Katernberger Str. 107, 45327 Essen, Germany
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, APRU Sustainable Waste Management, Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kirk Scheckel
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Environmental Solutions & Emergency Response, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jurate Kumpiene
- Waste Science and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Kapish Gobindlal
- Centre for Green Chemical Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Kah
- School of Environment, The University of Auckland, 23 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan Sperry
- Centre for Green Chemical Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - M B Kirkham
- Department of Agronomy, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506 USA
| | - Hailong Wang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiu Fai Tsang
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, New Territories 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, People's Republic of China
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Institute of Soil Engineering, Waste- and Water-Management, Faculty of Architecture und Civil Engineering, University of Wuppertal, Germany; Department of Environment, Energy and Geoinformatics, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, South Korea
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29
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Xie Y, Chen G, May AL, Yan J, Brown LP, Powers JB, Campagna SR, Löffler FE. Pseudomonas sp. Strain 273 Degrades Fluorinated Alkanes. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:14994-15003. [PMID: 33190477 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c04029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Fluorinated organic compounds have emerged as environmental constituents of concern. We demonstrate that the alkane degrader Pseudomonas sp. strain 273 utilizes terminally monofluorinated C7-C10 alkanes and 1,10-difluorodecane (DFD) as the sole carbon and energy sources in the presence of oxygen. Strain 273 degraded 1-fluorodecane (FD) (5.97 ± 0.22 mM, nominal) and DFD (5.62 ± 0.13 mM, nominal) within 7 days of incubation, and 92.7 ± 3.8 and 90.1 ± 1.9% of the theoretical maximum amounts of fluorine were recovered as inorganic fluoride, respectively. With n-decane, strain 273 attained (3.24 ± 0.14) × 107 cells per μmol of carbon consumed, while lower biomass yields of (2.48 ± 0.15) × 107 and (1.62 ± 0.23) × 107 cells were measured with FD or DFD as electron donors, respectively. The organism coupled decanol and decanoate oxidation to denitrification, but the utilization of (fluoro)alkanes was strictly oxygen-dependent, presumably because the initial attack on the terminal carbon requires oxygen. Fluorohexanoate was detected as an intermediate in cultures grown with FD or DFD, suggesting that the initial attack on the fluoroalkanes can occur on the terminal methyl or fluoromethyl groups. The findings indicate that specialized bacteria such as Pseudomonas sp. strain 273 can break carbon-fluorine bonds most likely with oxygenolytic enzyme systems and that terminally monofluorinated alkanes are susceptible to microbial degradation. The findings have implications for the fate of components associated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) mixtures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchao Xie
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Gao Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Amanda L May
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Jun Yan
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Lindsay P Brown
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Joshua B Powers
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Shawn R Campagna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Biological and Small Molecule Mass Spectrometry Core, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Frank E Löffler
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
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30
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Joudan S, Liu R, D'eon JC, Mabury SA. Unique analytical considerations for laboratory studies identifying metabolic products of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). Trends Analyt Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2019.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Zhang H, Wen B, Huang H, Wang S, Cai Z, Zhang S. Biotransformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol by the whole soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) seedlings. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 257:113513. [PMID: 31733959 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs) are important precursors of perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) in the environment and biota. With the growing application of 6:2 FTOH [F(CF2)6CH2CH2OH] in product formulation, it is becoming increasingly urgent to investigate its biological fates in different species. In this study, biotransformation of 6:2 FTOH by young soybean plants (Glycine max L. Merrill) were investigated using hydroponic experiments. During the 144 h-exposure, 6:2 FTCA [F(CF2)6CH2COOH], 6:2 FTUCA [F(CF2)5CFCHCOOH], 5:3 FTUCA [F(CF2)5CHCHCOOH], 5:3 FTCA [F(CF2)5CH2CH2COOH], PFHxA [F(CF2)5COOH] and PFPeA [F(CF2)4COOH] were phase I metabolites in soybean. At the end of exposure, 5:3 FTCA (5.08 mol%), PFHxA (2.34 mol%) and PFPeA (0.58 mol%) were three main metabolites in soybean-solution system. 5:3 FTCA was predominant in soybean roots and stems, while PFHxA was the most abundant product in leaves. PFBA [F(CF2)3COOH] and 4:3 FTCA [F(CF2)4CH2CH2COOH] detected in the hydroponic solution most-likely came from the transformation of 5:3 FTCA by root-associated microbes. Moreover, phase II metabolites of 6:2 FTOH were identified and monitored in soybean tissues. Alcohol dehydrogenase, aldehyde dehydrogenase and glutathione S-transferase were found to participate in 6:2 FTOH metabolism. Based on the phase I and phase II metabolism of 6:2 FTOH in soybean, this study for the first time provides evidences for the transformation pathways of 6:2 FTOH in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongna Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Bei Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.
| | - Honglin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Sen Wang
- Department of Environmental Sciences, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710027, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Shuzhen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
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32
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Li P, Zhi D, Zhang X, Zhu H, Li Z, Peng Y, He Y, Luo L, Rong X, Zhou Y. Research progress on the removal of hazardous perfluorochemicals: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2019; 250:109488. [PMID: 31499465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorinated substances are global and ubiquitous pollutants. The persistent organic pollution of perfluorochemicals (PFCs) have drawn attentions worldwide. In view of the current need for sustainable development, many researchers began to study the remediation techniques for PFCs. Due to its unique hydrophobic and oil-phobic characteristics, the requirements for the PFCs removal process are different, so that their remediation techniques are still under continuous exploration. Hence, this review summarized the removal behaviors of various PFCs on different materials which supply a good foundation for future investigations in this field. It is evident from previous literature that every remediation techniques for PFCs has its own advantages. Among various currently evaluated removal methods, adsorption seems to be one of the most commonly used and recognized techniques for PFCs pollution control. Other innovative and promising techniques, such as physical and/or chemical methods, have also been tested for their effectiveness in removing perfluorinated compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Li
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Dan Zhi
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Hongmei Zhu
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China.
| | - Zhiyong Li
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Yutao Peng
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yangzhou He
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Lin Luo
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Xiangmin Rong
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Yaoyu Zhou
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Agricultural Typical Pollution Remediation and Wetland Protection, College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China.
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33
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Qiao W, Zhang Y, Xie Z, Luo Y, Zhang X, Sang C, Xie S, Huang J. Toxicity of perfluorooctane sulfonate on Phanerochaete chrysosporium: Growth, pollutant degradation and transcriptomics. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 174:66-74. [PMID: 30822669 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.02.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
As a persistent organic pollutant listed in the Stockholm Convention, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is extremely refractory to degradation under ambient conditions. Its potential ecotoxicity has aroused great concerns and research interests. However, little is known about the toxicity of PFOS on fungus. In this study, the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium (P. chrysosporium) was adopted to assess the toxicity of PFOS in liquid culture. The addition of 100 mg/L PFOS potassium salt significantly decreased the fungal biomass by up to 76.4% comparing with un-amended control during the incubation period. The hyphostroma of P. chrysosporium was wizened and its cell membrane was thickened, while its vesicle structure was increased, based on the observation with scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Nevertheless, the PFOS dosage of below 100 mg/L did not show a considerable damage to the growth of P. chrysosporium. The degradation of malachite green (MG) and 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) by P. chrysosporium was negatively affected by PFOS. At the initial dosage of 100 mg/L PFOS, the decolorization efficiency of MG and the degradation efficiency of 2,4-DCP decreased by 37% and 20%, respectively. This might be attributed to the inhibition of PFOS on MnP and LiP activities. The activities of MnP and LiP decreased by 20.6% and 43.4%, respectively. At a high dosage PFOS (100 mg/L), P. chrysosporium could show a high adsorption of MG but lose its pollutant degradation ability. Transcriptome analysis indicated that PFOS contamination could lead to the change of gene expression in the studied white rot fungus, and the genes regulating membrane structure, cell redox process, and cell transport, synthesis and metabolism were impacted. Membrane damage and oxidative damage were the two main mechanisms of PFOS' toxicity to P. chrysosporium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichuan Qiao
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Yunhao Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Zhenyu Xie
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Yang Luo
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Xuansong Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Cunxing Sang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Shuguang Xie
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control (SKJLESPC), College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
| | - Jun Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control (SKJLESPC), Beijing Key Laboratory for Emerging Organic Contaminants Control(BKLEOC), School of Environment, POPs Research Center, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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34
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Shaw DMJ, Munoz G, Bottos EM, Duy SV, Sauvé S, Liu J, Van Hamme JD. Degradation and defluorination of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamidoalkyl betaine and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate by Gordonia sp. strain NB4-1Y under sulfur-limiting conditions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 647:690-698. [PMID: 30092525 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamidoalkyl betaine (6:2 FTAB) is a major component of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used for firefighting and is frequently detected, along with one of its suspected transformation products, 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTSA), in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems impacted by AFFF usage. Biochemical processes underlying bacterial biodegradation of these compounds remain poorly understood due to a lack of pure culture studies. Here, we characterized the water-soluble and volatile breakdown products of 6:2 FTSA and 6:2 FTAB produced using Gordonia sp. strain NB4-1Y cultures over seven days under sulfur-limited conditions. After 168 h, 99.9% of 60 μM 6:2 FTSA was degraded into ten major breakdown products, with a mol% recovery of 88.2, while 70.4% of 60 μM 6:2 FTAB was degraded into ten major breakdown products, with a mol% recovery of 84.7. NB4-1Y uses two pathways for 6:2 FTSA metabolism, with 55 mol% of breakdown products assigned to a major pathway and <1.0 mol% assigned to a minor pathway. This work indicates that rapid transformation of 6:2 FTSA and 6:2 FTAB can be achieved under controlled conditions and improves the bacterial metabolism of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayton M J Shaw
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada
| | - Gabriel Munoz
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada; McGill University, Department of Civil Engineering, Montreal, QC H3A 0C3, Canada
| | - Eric M Bottos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada
| | - Sung Vo Duy
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Sébastien Sauvé
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Jinxia Liu
- McGill University, Department of Civil Engineering, Montreal, QC H3A 0C3, Canada.
| | - Jonathan D Van Hamme
- Department of Biological Sciences, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada.
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35
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Yi S, Harding-Marjanovic KC, Houtz EF, Gao Y, Lawrence JE, Nichiporuk RV, Iavarone AT, Zhuang WQ, Hansen M, Field JA, Sedlak DL, Alvarez-Cohen L. Biotransformation of AFFF Component 6:2 Fluorotelomer Thioether Amido Sulfonate Generates 6:2 Fluorotelomer Thioether Carboxylate under Sulfate-Reducing Conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2018; 5:283-288. [PMID: 30705920 PMCID: PMC6350918 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.8b00148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The fate of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in aqueous filmforming foams (AFFFs) under anaerobic conditions has not been well characterized, leaving major gaps in our understanding of PFAS fate and transformation at contaminated sites. In this study, the biotransformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer thioether amido sulfonate (6:2 FtTAoS), a component of several AFFF formulations, was investigated under sulfate-reducing conditions in microcosms inoculated with either pristine or AFFF-impacted solids. To identify the transformation products, we used high-resolution mass spectrometry and employed suspect-screening and nontargeted compound identification methods. These analyses demonstrated that 6:2 FtTAoS was transformed primarily to a stable polyfluoroalkyl compound, 6:2 fluorotelomer thioether propionate (6:2 FtTP). It did not undergo further reactions to produce the perfluoroalkyl carboxylates and fluorotelomer sulfonates and carboxylates that were observed during aerobic transformations. Here, the 6:2 FtTP was recalcitrant to biotransformation, indicating the stability of the thioether group under sulfate reducing conditions. The total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay was used to assess the presence of other PFASs. Although nearly all of the PFAS mass initially present was recovered from the pristine microcosms, only 67% of the initial PFAS mass was recovered from the contaminated microcosms, suggesting the formation of volatile biotransformation products or those that could not be detected by the TOP assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Yi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | | | | | - Ying Gao
- Institute of Desertification Studies, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Jennifer E. Lawrence
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Rita V. Nichiporuk
- The California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Anthony T. Iavarone
- The California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Wei-Qin Zhuang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Martin Hansen
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jennifer A. Field
- Department of Molecular and Environmental Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - David L. Sedlak
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Lisa Alvarez-Cohen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Earth and Environmental Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 726 Davis Hall, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720 1710. Phone: (510) 6435969. Fax: (510) 6427483.
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36
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Ross I, McDonough J, Miles J, Storch P, Thelakkat Kochunarayanan P, Kalve E, Hurst J, S. Dasgupta S, Burdick J. A review of emerging technologies for remediation of PFASs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/rem.21553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Ross
- Senior Technical Director; Arcadis; Leeds West Yorkshire U.K
| | | | | | - Peter Storch
- Principal Chemical Engineer; Arcadis; Melbourne Australia
| | | | | | - Jake Hurst
- Principal Consultant; Arcadis; Leeds West Yorkshire U.K
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37
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Hatton J, Holton C, DiGuiseppi B. Occurrence and behavior of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances from aqueous film-forming foam in groundwater systems. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/rem.21552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jim Hatton
- Senior Engineer and Principal Technologist, CH2M/Jacobs
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38
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Merino N, Wang M, Ambrocio R, Mak K, O'Connor E, Gao A, Hawley EL, Deeb RA, Tseng LY, Mahendra S. Fungal biotransformation of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/rem.21550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Merino
- Research fellow, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Rocio Ambrocio
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Kimberly Mak
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Ellen O'Connor
- Graduate Student in Molecular Toxicology, University of California Los Angeles
| | - An Gao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Los Angeles
| | | | | | - Linda Y. Tseng
- Assistant Professor, Environmental Studies Program & Department of Physics and Astronomy, Colgate University New York
| | - Shaily Mahendra
- Associate Professor and Samueli Fellow, University of California Los Angeles
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39
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Jasmann JR, Gedalanga PB, Borch T, Mahendra S, Blotevogel J. Synergistic Treatment of Mixed 1,4-Dioxane and Chlorinated Solvent Contaminations by Coupling Electrochemical Oxidation with Aerobic Biodegradation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:12619-12629. [PMID: 29023103 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b03134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradation of the persistent groundwater contaminant 1,4-dioxane is often hindered by the absence of dissolved oxygen and the co-occurrence of inhibiting chlorinated solvents. Using flow-through electrolytic reactors equipped with Ti/IrO2-Ta2O5 mesh electrodes, we show that combining electrochemical oxidation with aerobic biodegradation produces an overadditive treatment effect for degrading 1,4-dioxane. In reactors bioaugmented by Pseudonocardia dioxanivorans CB1190 with 3.0 V applied, 1,4-dioxane was oxidized 2.5 times faster than in bioaugmented control reactors without an applied potential, and 12 times faster than by abiotic electrolysis only. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses of CB1190 abundance, oxidation-reduction potential, and dissolved oxygen measurements indicated that microbial growth was promoted by anodic oxygen-generating reactions. At a higher potential of 8.0 V, however, the cell abundance near the anode was diminished, likely due to unfavorable pH and/or redox conditions. When coupled to electrolysis, biodegradation of 1,4-dioxane was sustained even in the presence of the common co-contaminant trichloroethene in the influent. Our findings demonstrate that combining electrolytic treatment with aerobic biodegradation may be a promising synergistic approach for the treatment of mixed contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeramy R Jasmann
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University , Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Phillip B Gedalanga
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California , Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Thomas Borch
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University , Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University , Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
- Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University , Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Shaily Mahendra
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California , Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Jens Blotevogel
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University , Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
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40
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Barzen-Hanson KA, Roberts SC, Choyke S, Oetjen K, McAlees A, Riddell N, McCrindle R, Ferguson PL, Higgins CP, Field JA. Discovery of 40 Classes of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Historical Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFFs) and AFFF-Impacted Groundwater. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:2047-2057. [PMID: 28098989 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b05843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 424] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs), containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), are released into the environment during response to fire-related emergencies. Repeated historical applications of AFFF at military sites were a result of fire-fighter training exercises and equipment testing. Recent data on AFFF-impacted groundwater indicates that ∼25% of the PFASs remain unidentified. In an attempt to close the mass balance, a systematic evaluation of 3M and fluorotelomer-based AFFFs, commercial products, and AFFF-impacted groundwaters from 15 U.S. military bases was conducted to identify the remaining PFASs. Liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was used for compound discovery. Nontarget analysis utilized Kendrick mass defect plots and a "nontarget" R script. Suspect screening compared masses with those of previously reported PFASs. Forty classes of novel anionic, zwitterionic, and cationic PFASs were discovered, and an additional 17 previously reported classes were observed for the first time in AFFF and/or AFFF-impacted groundwater. All 57 classes received an acronym and IUPAC-like name derived from collective author knowledge. Thirty-four of the 40 newly identified PFAS classes derive from electrochemical fluorination (ECF) processes, most of which have the same base structure. Of the newly discovered PFASs found only in AFFF-impacted groundwater, 11 of the 13 classes are ECF-derived, and the remaining two classes are fluorotelomer-derived, which suggests that both ECF- and fluorotelomer-based PFASs are persistent in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista A Barzen-Hanson
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University , 153 Gilbert Hall, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Simon C Roberts
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines , 1500 Illinois St., Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Sarah Choyke
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University , Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Karl Oetjen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines , 1500 Illinois St., Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Alan McAlees
- Wellington Laboratories Inc., 345 Southgate Drive, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 3M5
| | - Nicole Riddell
- Wellington Laboratories Inc., 345 Southgate Drive, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 3M5
| | - Robert McCrindle
- Department of Chemistry, University of Guelph , Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - P Lee Ferguson
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University , Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines , 1500 Illinois St., Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Jennifer A Field
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University , 1007 ALS Building, 2750 SW Campus Way, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
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41
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Zhang S, Merino N, Wang N, Ruan T, Lu X. Impact of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol aerobic biotransformation on a sediment microbial community. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 575:1361-1368. [PMID: 27756549 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.09.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Revised: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Sediment microbial communities are responsible for many chemical biotransformation processes in the aquatic environment and play a critical role in various ecosystems and biogeochemical cycling. However, the impact of polyfluoroalkyl substances on sediment microbial communities remains unclear. These substances are increasingly being used in consumer and industrial products to replace environmentally persistent perfluoroalkyl substances. In this study, we investigated the effects of low (5mg/L) and high (15mg/L) doses of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol [6:2 FTOH, F(CF2)6CH2CH2OH] on the structure of a sediment microbial community. 6:2 FTOH biotransformation was rapid in the sediment mixture with a half-life <3days, regardless of the initial doses. After 28days, major products produced in the high dose condition included 28mol% 5:2 sFTOH [F(CF2)5CH(OH)CH3], 9.6mol% 5:3 Acid [F(CF2)5CH2CH2COOH] and 11mol% PFHxA [F(CF2)5COOH], while 73mol% 5:2 sFTOH, 23mol% 5:3 Acid and 26mol% PFHxA were observed in the low dose condition. In the original (control) sediment without 6:2 FTOH dosing, Proteobacteria was the predominant microorganism (18%), followed by Chloroflexi (14%), Verrucomicrobia (13%), Firmicutes (3.4%), Bacterioidetes (2.4%), Actinobacteria (1.7%) and Planctomycetes (1.3%). The presence of 6:2 FTOH and the accumulation of transient transformation products in the sediment exerted selection pressure on the microbial taxonomic distribution and diversity. Our observations indicate that potential 6:2 FTOH degraders and tolerant strains, such as Dokdonella spp., Thauera spp., Albidovulum spp. and Caldanaerovirga spp., existed in the sediment mixture and began to dominate over time. This suggests that these genera might have higher tolerance towards elevated 6:2 FTOH and its transformation products. These findings on the characterization of sediment microbial community stability and dynamics will help predict changes in response to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and also help identify robust microbial strains to degrade polyfluoroalkyl substances in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhang
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Ministry of Education, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Nancy Merino
- Earth-Life Science Institute, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Ning Wang
- 132 Shrewsbury Dr., Wilmington, DE 19810, USA.
| | - Ting Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.
| | - Xiaoxia Lu
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Ministry of Education, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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42
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Lewis M, Kim MH, Wang N, Chu KH. Engineering artificial communities for enhanced FTOH degradation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 572:935-942. [PMID: 27519322 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.07.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs, [F(CF2)nCH2CH2OH]) are concerned environmental pollutants with perfluorinated carbon chains. FTOHs can be biotransformed; however, the extent, the pace of the defluorination, and types of metabolites produced vary depending on degradative microorganisms under different environment. In this study, we examined ways to increase the effectiveness of the FTOH defluorination process to less persistent major metabolites. Defined mixed cultures and bioaugmented microbial cultures were engineered to study their ability to biotransform 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol [F(CF2)6CH2CH2OH]. The effects of carbon sources and the concentration of carbon sources were also examined. All experiments resulted in 5:2 sFTOH [F(CF2)5CH(OH)CH3] as the primary metabolite at the end point. The carbon sources resulted in different amounts of pathway utilization as well as overall changes in effectiveness. The best overall effectiveness was observed when cosubstrate carbon was kept at low concentrations. Pathway II was best utilized by the P. butanovora+P. fluorescens mixed culture, with lactate having a slight negative impact on pathway II utilization. Additional carbon to augmented activated sludge resulted in decreased 6:2 FTOH biotransformation by 60%. Enrichment cultures showed that shorter chain FTOHs are easier to degrade, with the n-octane enriched culture transforming 20% of 8:2 FTOH, 60% of 6:2 FTOH and 70% of 4:2 FTOH. The microbial communities of the enrichment cultures and the alkane hydroxylase gene were also examined to help understand FTOH biotransformation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Lewis
- Zachry Department of Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3136, United States
| | - Myung-Hee Kim
- Zachry Department of Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3136, United States
| | - Ning Wang
- 132 Shrewsbury Dr., Wilmington DE19810, United States
| | - Kung-Hui Chu
- Zachry Department of Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3136, United States.
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Washington JW, Jenkins TM. Abiotic Hydrolysis of Fluorotelomer-Based Polymers as a Source of Perfluorocarboxylates at the Global Scale. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:14129-35. [PMID: 26526296 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b03686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Fluorotelomer-based polymers (FTPs) are the main product of the fluorotelomer industry. For nearly 10 years, whether FTPs degrade to form perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and perfluorocarboxylate (PFCA) homologues has been vigorously contested. Here we show that circum-neutral abiotic hydrolysis of a commercial FTP proceeds with half-life estimates of 55-89 years and that base-mediated hydrolysis overtakes neutral hydrolysis at about pH = 10, with a half-life of ~0.7 years at pH ∼ 12. Considered in light of the large production volume of FTPs and the poor efficacy of conventional treatments for recovery of PFCAs from waste streams, these results suggest that FTPs manufactured to date potentially could increase PFCAs 4- to 8-fold over current oceanic loads, largely depending on the integrity of disposal units to contain PFCAs upon hydrolytic generation from FTPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Washington
- USEPA , National Exposure Research Laboratory, 960 College Station Road, Athens, Georgia 30605-2700, United States
| | - Thomas M Jenkins
- USEPA , Senior Environmental Employment Program, Athens, Georgia 30605-2700, United States
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44
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Transformation products of emerging contaminants in the environment and high-resolution mass spectrometry: a new horizon. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 407:6257-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-015-8739-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 04/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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45
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Methodology for studying biotransformation of polyfluoroalkyl precursors in the environment. Trends Analyt Chem 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2014.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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