1
|
Zhu C, Lv W, Hong S, Han M, Song W, Liu C, Yao C, Jiang Q. Gradual effects of gradient concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate on the antioxidant ability and gut microbiota of red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172962. [PMID: 38705306 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172962] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a typical persistent organic pollutant that is characterized by environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity. In this study, we investigated the gut microbial response of the red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus after 28 days of exposure to 0 ng/L, 1 ng/L, 10 μg/L, or 10 mg/L of PFOS as a stressor. We measured oxidative stress-related enzyme activities and expression of molecules related to detoxification mechanisms to evaluate the toxic effects of PFOS. We found that PFOS disturbed microbial homeostasis in the gut of C. quadricarinatus, resulting in increased abundance of the pathogen Shewanella and decreased abundance of the beneficial bacterium Lactobacillus. The latter especially disturbed amino acid transport and carbohydrate transport. We also found that the activities of glutathione S-transferase and glutathione peroxidase were positively correlated with the expression levels of cytochrome P450 genes (GST1-1, GSTP, GSTK1, HPGDS, UGT5), which are products of PFOS-induced oxidative stress and play an antioxidant role in the body. The results of this study provided valuable ecotoxicological data to better understand the biological fate and effects of PFOS in C. quadricarinatus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Zhu
- Geography, School of Humanities, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Weiwei Lv
- Eco-environmental Protection Research Institute, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201403, China
| | - Shuang Hong
- Institute for Agri-food Standards and Testing Technology, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201403, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean university, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Mingming Han
- Geography, School of Humanities, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Weiguo Song
- Institute for Agri-food Standards and Testing Technology, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201403, China
| | - Chengbin Liu
- Institute for Agri-food Standards and Testing Technology, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201403, China
| | - Chunxia Yao
- Institute for Agri-food Standards and Testing Technology, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201403, China.
| | - Qichen Jiang
- Geography, School of Humanities, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia; Freshwater Fisheries Research Institute of Jiangsu Province, 79 Chating East Street, Nanjing 210017, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sinkway TD, Mehdi Q, Griffin EK, Correia K, Camacho CG, Aufmuth J, Ilvento C, Bowden JA. Crowdsourcing citizens for statewide mapping of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Florida drinking water. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171932. [PMID: 38522527 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171932] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of persistent chemicals that have been associated with a diverse array of adverse environmental and human health related effects. In addition to a growing list of health concerns, PFAS are also ubiquitously used and pervasive in our natural and built environments, and they have an innate ability to be highly mobile once released into the environment with an unmatched ability to resist degradation. As such, PFAS have been detected in a wide variety of environmental matrices, including soil, water, and biota; however, the matrix that largely dictates human exposure to PFAS is drinking water, in large part due to their abundance in water sources and our reliance on drinking water. As Florida is heavily reliant upon water and its varying sources, the primary objective of this study was to survey the presence of PFAS in drinking water collected from taps from the state of Florida (United States). In this study, 448 drinking water samples were collected by networking with trained citizen scientists, with at least one sample collected from each of the 67 counties in Florida. Well water, tap water, and bottled water, all sourced from Florida, were extracted and analyzed (31 PFAS) using isotope dilution and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Overall, when examining ∑PFAS: the minimum, maximum, median, and mean were ND, 219, 2.90, and 14.06 ng/L, respectively. The data herein allowed for a comparison of PFAS in drinking water geographically within the state of Florida, providing vital baseline concentrations for prospective monitoring and highlighting hotspots that require additional testing and mitigation. By incorporating citizen scientists into the study, we aimed to educate impacted communities regarding water quality issues and solutions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Sinkway
- Department of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Qaim Mehdi
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Emily K Griffin
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Keyla Correia
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Camden G Camacho
- Department of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Joe Aufmuth
- George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Carolina Ilvento
- Department of Journalism, College of Journalism and Communications, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - John A Bowden
- Department of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dutt M, Arigò A, Famiglini G, Zappia G, Palma P, Cappiello A. Exploring Negative Chemical Ionization of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances via a Liquid Electron Ionization LC-MS Interface. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2024; 35:890-901. [PMID: 38587900 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.3c00432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a class of aliphatic manufactured compounds comprising fluoro-chemicals with varied functional groups and stable carbon-fluorine bonds. They are defined as "forever chemicals" due to their persistent and bioaccumulative character. These substances have been detected in various environmental samples, including water, air, soil, and human blood, posing significant health hazards. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS) is typically employed for the analysis of PFASs. Negative chemical ionization (NCI) is generally coupled to gas chromatography (GC) and offers high selectivity and sensitivity for compounds containing electronegative atoms, such as PFASs. The liquid electron ionization (LEI) interface is an efficient mechanism developed to robustly couple a liquid flow rate from an LC system to an EI or a CI source. This interface has been successfully utilized for pesticide determination in UHPLC-LEI-CI in negative ion mode (NCI). This work aims to evaluate different parameters involved in the ionization of PFASs analyzed in LC-LEI-NCI and subsequently develop a method for their detection in real samples. The parameters considered for this study include (i) a comparison of different CI reagent gases (methane, isobutane, and argon); (ii) the use of acetonitrile as both the chromatographic solvent and CI reagent gas; (iii) the presence of water and formic acid as chromatographic mobile phase components; and (iv) the mobile phase flow rate. The optimal combination of these parameters led to promising results. Tentative fragmentation pathways of PFASs in NCI mode are proposed based on the dissociative electron capture mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malvika Dutt
- DiSPeA Department, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Adriana Arigò
- DiSPeA Department, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Giorgio Famiglini
- DiSPeA Department, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zappia
- San Raffaele University of Rome, via di Val Cannuta, 247 00166 Rome, Italy
- UMOLSYSTEM Srl, Piazza Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Pierangela Palma
- DiSPeA Department, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
- Department of Chemistry, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5S5, Canada
| | - Achille Cappiello
- DiSPeA Department, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
- Department of Chemistry, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5S5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Green MP, Shearer C, Patrick R, Kabiri S, Rivers N, Nixon B. The perils of poly- and perfluorinated chemicals on the reproductive health of humans, livestock, and wildlife. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD24034. [PMID: 38744493 DOI: 10.1071/rd24034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a prominent class of persistent synthetic compound. The widespread use of these substances in various industrial applications has resulted in their pervasive contamination on a global scale. It is therefore concerning that PFAS have a propensity to accumulate in bodily tissues whereupon they have been linked with a range of adverse health outcomes. Despite this, the true extent of the risk posed by PFAS to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife remains unclear. Addressing these questions requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining the fields of chemistry, biology, and policy to enable meaningful investigation and develop innovative remediation strategies. This article combines the perspectives of chemists, soil scientists, reproductive biologists, and health policy researchers, to contextualise the issue of PFAS contamination and its specific impact on reproductive health. The purpose of this article is to describe the challenges associated with remediating PFAS-contaminated soils and waters and explore the consequences of PFAS contamination on health and reproduction. Furthermore, current actions to promote planetary health and protect ecosystems are presented to instigate positive social change among the scientific community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic. 3010, Australia
| | - Cameron Shearer
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Rebecca Patrick
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Vic. 3220, Australia
| | - Shervin Kabiri
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia
| | - Nicola Rivers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Hunter Medical Research Institute Research Program in Infertility and Reproduction, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia; and School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mueller R, Salvatore D, Brown P, Cordner A. Quantifying Disparities in Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Levels in Drinking Water from Overburdened Communities in New Jersey, 2019-2021. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:47011. [PMID: 38656167 PMCID: PMC11041625 DOI: 10.1289/ehp12787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Policymakers have become increasingly concerned regarding the widespread exposure and toxicity of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). While concerns exist about unequal distribution of PFAS contamination in drinking water, research is lacking. OBJECTIVES We assess the scope of PFAS contamination in drinking water in New Jersey (NJ), the first US state to develop regulatory levels for PFAS in drinking water. We test for inequities in PFAS concentrations by community sociodemographic characteristics. METHODS We use PFAS testing data for community water systems (CWS) (n = 491 ) from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) from 2019 to 2021 and demographic data at the block group level from the US Census to estimate the demographics of the NJ population served by CWS. We use difference in means tests to determine whether CWSs serving "overburdened communities" (OBCs) have a statistically significant difference in likelihood of PFAS detections. OBCs are defined by the NJDEP to be census block groups in which: a) at least 35% of the households qualify as low-income, b) at least 40% of the residents identify as people of color, or c) at least 40% of the households have limited English proficiency. We calculate statewide summary statistics to approximate the relative proportions of sociodemographic groups that are served by CWSs with PFAS detections. RESULTS We find that 63% of all CWSs tested by NJDEP from 2019 to 2021 had PFAS detections in public drinking water, collectively serving 84% of NJ's population receiving water from CWSs. Additionally, CWSs serving OBCs had a statistically significant higher likelihood of PFAS detection and a higher likelihood of exposure above state MCLs. We also find that a larger proportion of people of color lived in CWS service areas with PFAS detections compared to the non-Hispanic white population. DISCUSSION These findings quantitatively identify disparities in PFAS contamination of drinking water by CWS service area and highlight the extent of PFAS drinking water contamination and the importance of PFAS remediation efforts for protecting environmental health and justice. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP12787.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Mueller
- Department of Economics, Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington, USA
| | | | - Phil Brown
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alissa Cordner
- Department of Sociology, Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Iannone A, Carriera F, Passarella S, Fratianni A, Avino P. There's Something in What We Eat: An Overview on the Extraction Techniques and Chromatographic Analysis for PFAS Identification in Agri-Food Products. Foods 2024; 13:1085. [PMID: 38611389 PMCID: PMC11011820 DOI: 10.3390/foods13071085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of anthropogenic chemicals used in a range of industrial processes and consumer products. Recently, their ubiquitous presence in the environment as well as their toxicological effects in humans have gained relevant attention. Although the occurrence of PFASs is widely investigated in scientific community, the standardization of analytical method for all matrices still remains an important issue. In this review, we discussed extraction and detection methods in depth to evaluate the best procedures of PFAS identification in terms of analytical parameters (e.g., limits of detection (LODs), limits of quantification (LOQs), recoveries). Extraction approaches based on liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), alkaline digestion, and solid phase extraction (SPE), followed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis are the main analytical methods applied in the literature. The results showed detectable recoveries of PFOA and PFOS in meat, milk, vegetables, eggs products (90.6-101.2% and of 89.2-98.4%), and fish (96-108%). Furthermore, the low LOD and LOQ values obtained for meat (0.00592-0.01907 ng g-1; 0.050 ng g-1), milk (0.003-0.009 ng g-1; 0.010-0.027 ng g-1), fruit (0.002-0.009 ng g-1; 0.006-0.024 ng g-1), and fish (0.00369-0.017.33 ng g-1; 0.05 ng g-1) also confirmed the effectiveness of the recent quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method (QuEChERS) for simple, speedy, and sensitive ultra-trace PFAS analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Iannone
- Department of Agriculture, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, Via De Sanctis, IT-86100 Campobasso, Italy; (A.I.); (F.C.); (S.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Fabiana Carriera
- Department of Agriculture, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, Via De Sanctis, IT-86100 Campobasso, Italy; (A.I.); (F.C.); (S.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Sergio Passarella
- Department of Agriculture, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, Via De Sanctis, IT-86100 Campobasso, Italy; (A.I.); (F.C.); (S.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Alessandra Fratianni
- Department of Agriculture, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, Via De Sanctis, IT-86100 Campobasso, Italy; (A.I.); (F.C.); (S.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Pasquale Avino
- Department of Agriculture, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, Via De Sanctis, IT-86100 Campobasso, Italy; (A.I.); (F.C.); (S.P.); (A.F.)
- Institute of Atmospheric Pollution Research, Division of Rome, c/o Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, Via Cristoforo Colombo 44, IT-00147 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tang L, Yu X, Zhao W, Barceló D, Lyu S, Sui Q. Occurrence, behaviors, and fate of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in typical municipal solid waste disposal sites. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 252:121215. [PMID: 38309069 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have become a crucial environmental concern owing to their exceptional persistence, ability to bioaccumulate within ecosystems, and potential to adversely affect biota. Products and materials containing PFASs are usually discarded into municipal solid waste (MSW) at the end of their life cycle, and the fate of PFASs may differ when different disposal methods of MSWs are employed. To date, limited research has focus on the occurrence, behaviors, and fate of PFASs emitted from various MSW disposal sites. This knowledge gap may lead to an underestimation of the contribution of MSW disposal sites as a source of PFASs in the environment. In this review, we collated publications concerning PFASs from typical MSW disposal sites (i.e., landfills, incineration plants, and composting facilities) and explored the occurrence patterns and behaviors of PFASs across various media (e.g., landfill leachate/ambient air, incineration plant leachate/ash, and compost products) in these typical MSW disposal sites. In particular, this review highlighted ultrashort-chain perfluoroalkyl acids and "unknown"/emerging PFASs. Additionally, it meticulously elucidated the use of non-specific techniques and non-target analysis for screening and identifying these overlooked PFASs. Furthermore, the composition profiles, mass loads, and ecological risks of PFASs were compared across the three typical disposal methods. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review regarding the occurrence, behaviors, and fate of PFASs in typical MSW disposal sites on a global scale, which can help shed light on the potential environmental impacts of PFASs harbored in MSWs and guide future waste management practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linfeng Tang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xia Yu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China.
| | - Wentao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Damià Barceló
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, Spanish Council for Scientific Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Barcelona 08034, Spain
| | - Shuguang Lyu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qian Sui
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Marchiandi J, Alghamdi W, Dagnino S, Green MP, Clarke BO. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals from beverage packaging materials and risk assessment for consumers. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133314. [PMID: 38147747 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of beverage packaging materials on the presence of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in plastic, glass, carton, aluminium, and tin canned non-alcoholic beverages. Results showed that 63 EDCs including perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), bisphenols, parabens, benzophenone-type UV-filters, biocides, nitrophenols, and alkylphenols, were detected in 144/162 screened products. Detected ∑63EDC concentrations ranged from 1.3 to 19,600 ng/L. EDC concentrations were higher in beverages packaged in metal cans while lower or no levels were detected in glass, plastic, and carton packaged drinks. Bisphenol levels were higher on average in canned beverages compared to glass (p < 0.01) and plastic products (p < 0.05) produced by the same brand and manufacturer. Two structural isomers of bisphenol A (BPA) were identified in 19 beverages, constituting the first detection in foodstuffs. The calculated daily intake of detected EDCs showed that exposure to BPA from per capita beverage consumption of 364 mL/day are up to 2000-fold higher than the newly revised safety guideline for BPA recommended by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). Overall, these findings suggest that BPA exposure poses a potential health hazard for individuals who regularly consume non-alcoholic beverages packaged in aluminium or tin cans, particularly young children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaye Marchiandi
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Wejdan Alghamdi
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Sonia Dagnino
- Transporters in Imaging and Radiotherapy in Oncology (TIRO), School of Medicine, Direction de la Recherche Fondamentale (DRF), Institut des sciences du vivant Fréderic Joliot, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux énergies alternatives (CEA), Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), 28 Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France; MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang G, Xing Z, Liu S, Chen H, Dong X, Guo P, Wang H, Liu Y. Emerging and legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in Daling River and its estuary, Northern China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 199:115953. [PMID: 38128250 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115953] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Strict restriction on legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) has caused a dramatic increase in production and usage of emerging PFASs over the last decades. However, the environmental behaviors of emerging PFASs is largely unknown in Daling River, Northern China. In this study, the potential sources, sediment-water partitioning and substitution trends of PFASs were investigated in overlying water and sediments from Daling River and its estuary. Perfluorooctane sulfonate and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid were major compounds, and sodium p-perfluorous nonenoxybenzene sulfonate was first detected. Firefighting foam manufacturing and fluoropolymer production were the main sources of PFASs. Compared to legacy PFASs (C8), the emerging PFASs (C6 - C9) were more incline to distribute into overlying water. Substitution trends indicated 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid and hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid as the important alternatives of perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid, respectively. The results were meaningful for understanding the environmental behaviors of emerging PFASs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guoguang Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China.
| | - Ziao Xing
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Shuaihao Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Haiyue Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Xu Dong
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Pengxu Guo
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Haixia Wang
- Navigation College, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Yu Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bodus B, O'Malley K, Dieter G, Gunawardana C, McDonald W. Review of emerging contaminants in green stormwater infrastructure: Antibiotic resistance genes, microplastics, tire wear particles, PFAS, and temperature. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167195. [PMID: 37777137 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167195] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Green stormwater infrastructure is a growing management approach to capturing, infiltrating, and treating runoff at the source. However, there are several emerging contaminants for which green stormwater infrastructure has not been explicitly designed to mitigate and for which removal mechanisms are not yet well defined. This is an issue, as there is a growing understanding of the impact of emerging contaminants on human and environmental health. This paper presents a review of five emerging contaminants - antibiotic resistance genes, microplastics, tire wear particles, PFAS, and temperature - and seeks to improve our understanding of how green stormwater infrastructure is impacted by and can be designed to mitigate these emerging contaminants. To do so, we present a review of the source and transport of these contaminants to green stormwater infrastructure, specific treatment mechanisms within green infrastructure, and design considerations of green stormwater infrastructure that could lead to their removal. In addition, common removal mechanisms across these contaminants and limitations of green infrastructure for contaminant mitigation are discussed. Finally, we present future research directions that can help to advance the use of green infrastructure as a first line of defense for downstream water bodies against emerging contaminants of concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Bodus
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Kassidy O'Malley
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Greg Dieter
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Charitha Gunawardana
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Walter McDonald
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kotlarz N, Guillette T, Critchley C, Collier D, Lea CS, McCord J, Strynar M, Cuffney M, Hopkins ZR, Knappe DRU, Hoppin JA. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl ether acids in well water and blood serum from private well users residing by a fluorochemical facility near Fayetteville, North Carolina. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2024; 34:97-107. [PMID: 38195989 PMCID: PMC10976930 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-023-00626-x] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A fluorochemical facility near Fayetteville, North Carolina, emitted per- and polyfluoroalkyl ether acids (PFEAs), a subgroup of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), to air. OBJECTIVE Analyze PFAS in private wells near the facility and in blood from well users to assess relationships between PFEA levels in water and serum. METHODS In 2019, we recruited private well users into the GenX Exposure Study and collected well water and blood samples. We targeted 26 PFAS (11 PFEAs) in water and 27 PFAS (9 PFEAs) in serum using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We used regression modeling to explore relationships between water and serum PFAS. For the only PFEA detected frequently in water and serum, Nafion byproduct 2, we used generalized estimating equation (GEE) models to assess well water exposure metrics and then adjusted for covariates that may influence Nafion byproduct 2 serum concentrations. RESULTS We enrolled 153 participants ages 6 and older (median = 56 years) using 84 private wells. Most wells (74%) had ≥6 detectable PFEAs; median ∑PFEAs was 842 ng/L (interquartile range = 197-1760 ng/L). Low molecular weight PFEAs (PMPA, HFPO-DA [GenX], PEPA, PFO2HxA) were frequently detected in well water, had the highest median concentrations, but were not detectable in serum. Nafion byproduct 2 was detected in 73% of wells (median = 14 ng/L) and 56% of serum samples (median = 0.2 ng/mL). Cumulative dose (well concentration × duration at address) was positively associated with Nafion byproduct 2 serum levels and explained the most variability (10%). In the adjusted model, cumulative dose was associated with higher Nafion byproduct 2 serum levels while time outside the home was associated with lower levels. IMPACT PFAS are a large class of synthetic, fluorinated chemicals. Fluorochemical facilities are important sources of environmental PFAS contamination globally. The fluorochemical industry is producing derivatives of perfluoroalkyl acids, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl ether acids (PFEAs). PFEAs have been detected in various environmental samples but information on PFEA-exposed populations is limited. While serum biomonitoring is often used for PFAS exposure assessment, serum biomarkers were not good measures of long-term exposure to low molecular weight PFEAs in a private well community. Environmental measurements and other approaches besides serum monitoring will be needed to better characterize PFEA exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Kotlarz
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University (NC State), Raleigh, NC, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Theresa Guillette
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Research Participation Program, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | | | - David Collier
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University (NC State), Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University (ECU), Greenville, NC, USA
| | - C Suzanne Lea
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University (NC State), Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine, ECU, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - James McCord
- Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mark Strynar
- Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Michael Cuffney
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Zachary R Hopkins
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, NC State, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Detlef R U Knappe
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University (NC State), Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, NC State, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Jane A Hoppin
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University (NC State), Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State, Raleigh, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Xing Y, Zhou Y, Zhang X, Lin X, Li J, Liu P, Lee HK, Huang Z. The sources and bioaccumulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in animal-derived foods and the potential risk of dietary intake. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167313. [PMID: 37742961 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have attracted increasing attention due to their environmental persistence and potential toxicity. Diet is one of the main routes of human exposure to PFAS, particularly through the consumption of animal-derived foods (e.g., aquatic products, livestock and poultry, and products derived from them). This review summarizes the source, bioaccumulation, and distribution of PFAS in animal-derived foods and key influential factors. In most environmental media, perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate are the dominant PFAS, with the levels of short-chain PFAS such as perfluorobutyric acid and perfluorohexane sulfonate surpassing them in some watersheds and coastal areas. The presence of PFAS in environmental media is mainly influenced by suspended particulate matter, microbial communities as well as temporal and spatial factors, such as season and location. Linear PFAS with long carbon chains (C ≥ 7) and sulfonic groups tend to accumulate in organisms and contribute significantly to the contamination of animal-derived foods. Furthermore, PFAS, due to their protein affinity, are prone to accumulate in the blood and protein-rich tissues such as the liver and kidney. Species differences in PFAS bioaccumulation are determined by diet, variances in protein content in the blood and tissues and species-specific activity of transport proteins. Carnivorous fish usually show higher PFAS accumulation than omnivorous fish. Poultry typically metabolize PFAS more rapidly than mammals. PFAS exposures in the processing of animal-derived foods are also attributable to the migration of PFAS from food contact materials, especially those in higher-fat content foods. The human health risk assessment of PFAS exposure from animal-derived foods suggests that frequent consumption of aquatic products potentially engender greater risks to women and minors than to adult males. The information and perspectives from this review would help to further identify the toxicity and migration mechanism of PFAS in animal-derived foods and provide information for food safety management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Xing
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Xia Lin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Jiaoyang Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China
| | - Hian Kee Lee
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Zhenzhen Huang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zheng G, Eick SM, Salamova A. Elevated Levels of Ultrashort- and Short-Chain Perfluoroalkyl Acids in US Homes and People. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:15782-15793. [PMID: 37818968 PMCID: PMC10603771 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c06715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) make up a large group of fluorinated organic compounds extensively used in consumer products and industrial applications. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), the two perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) with 8 carbons in their structure, have been phased out on a global scale because of their high environmental persistence and toxicity. As a result, shorter-chain PFAAs with less than 8 carbons in their structure are being used as their replacements and are now widely detected in the environment, raising concerns about their effects on human health. In this study, 47 PFAAs and their precursors were measured in paired samples of dust and drinking water collected from residential homes in Indiana, United States, and in blood and urine samples collected from the residents of these homes. Ultrashort- (with 2 or 3 carbons [C2-C3]) and short-chain (with 4-7 carbons [C4-C7]) PFAAs were the most abundant in all four matrices and constituted on average 69-100% of the total PFAA concentrations. Specifically, trifluoroacetic acid (TFA, C2) and perfluoropropanoic acid (PFPrA, C3) were the predominant PFAAs in most of the samples. Significant positive correlations (n = 81; r = 0.23-0.42; p < 0.05) were found between TFA, perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA, C4), and perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA, C7) concentrations in dust or water and those in serum, suggesting dust ingestion and/or drinking water consumption as important exposure pathways for these compounds. This study demonstrates that ultrashort- and short-chain PFAAs are now abundant in the indoor environment and in humans and warrants further research on potential adverse health effects of these exposures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guomao Zheng
- School
of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Stephanie M. Eick
- Gangarosa
Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department
of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Amina Salamova
- Gangarosa
Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
DeLuca NM, Thomas K, Mullikin A, Slover R, Stanek LW, Pilant AN, Cohen Hubal EA. Geographic and demographic variability in serum PFAS concentrations for pregnant women in the United States. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2023; 33:710-724. [PMID: 36697764 PMCID: PMC10541323 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-023-00520-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While major pathways of human PFAS exposure are thought to be drinking water and diet, other pathways and sources have also been shown to contribute to a person's cumulative exposure. However, the degree of contribution of these other sources to PFAS body burdens is still not well understood and occurrence data for PFAS in conssumer products and household materials are sparse. Questionnaire data concordant with biomonitoring may improve understanding of associations between other PFAS exposure pathways and exposure in human populations. OBJECTIVE This study aims to better understand maternal and early-life exposures to PFAS from various potential sources and pathways in the context of household and community level characteristics. METHODS PFAS data from the National Children's Study (NCS) Vanguard Data and Sample Archive Access System were analyzed from serum of 427 pregnant women residing in 7 counties throughout the United States. Location and self-reported questionnaire responses were used to analyze variability in serum concentrations based on demographics, housing characteristics, behaviors, and geography. Spatial mapping analyses incorporated publicly available data to further hypothesize potential sources of exposure in two NCS counties. RESULTS Location was associated with serum concentrations for all PFAS chemicals measured. Questionnaire responses for race/ethnicity, income, education level, number of household members, drinking water source, home age, and fast-food consumption were associated with PFAS levels. Statistical differences were observed between participants with the same questionnaire responses but in different locations. Spatial mapping analyses suggested that participants' proximity to local point sources can overshadow expected trends with demographic information. SIGNIFICANCE By increasing understanding of maternal and early-life PFAS exposures from various potential sources and pathways, as well as highlighting the importance of proximity to potential sources in identifying vulnerable populations and locations, this work reveals environmental justice considerations and contributes to risk management strategies that maximize public health protection. IMPACT This work increases understanding of maternal and early-life PFAS exposures, reveals environmental justice considerations, and contributes to study design and risk management strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M DeLuca
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Kent Thomas
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Ashley Mullikin
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Rachel Slover
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Lindsay W Stanek
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Andrew N Pilant
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Elaine A Cohen Hubal
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shittu AR, Iwaloye OF, Ojewole AE, Rabiu AG, Amechi MO, Herve OF. The effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on environmental and human microorganisms and their potential for bioremediation. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2023; 74:167-178. [PMID: 37791672 PMCID: PMC10549896 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2023-74-3708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Utilised in a variety of consumer products, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are major environmental contaminants that accumulate in living organisms due to their highly hydrophobic, lipophobic, heat-resistant, and non-biodegradable properties. This review summarizes their effects on microbial populations in soils, aquatic and biogeochemical systems, and the human microbiome. Specific microbes are insensitive to and even thrive with PFAS contamination, such as Escherichia coli and the Proteobacteria in soil and aquatic environments, while some bacterial species, such as Actinobacteria and Chloroflexi, are sensitive and drop in population. Some bacterial species, in turn, have shown success in PFAS bioremediation, such as Acidimicrobium sp. and Pseudomonas parafulva.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adenike R. Shittu
- Bowling Green State University College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green, OH, USA
| | - Opeoluwa F. Iwaloye
- Bowling Green State University College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green, OH, USA
| | - Akinloye E. Ojewole
- Southern Illinois University, Department of Environmental Sciences, Edwardsville, IL, USA
| | - Akeem G. Rabiu
- University of Ibadan, Department of Microbiology, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Miracle O. Amechi
- University of Louisville, Department of Chemistry, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Ouambo F. Herve
- Chantal Biya International Reference Centre, Laboratory of Vaccinology, Yaounde, Cameroon
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pozzebon EA, Seifert L. Emerging environmental health risks associated with the land application of biosolids: a scoping review. Environ Health 2023; 22:57. [PMID: 37599358 PMCID: PMC10440945 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-023-01008-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 40% of the six million dry metric tons of sewage sludge, often referred to as biosolids, produced annually in the United States is land applied. Biosolids serve as a sink for emerging pollutants which can be toxic and persist in the environment, yet their fate after land application and their impacts on human health have not been well studied. These gaps in our understanding are exacerbated by the absence of systematic monitoring programs and defined standards for human health protection. METHODS The purpose of this paper is to call critical attention to the knowledge gaps that currently exist regarding emerging pollutants in biosolids and to underscore the need for evidence-based testing standards and regulatory frameworks for human health protection when biosolids are land applied. A scoping review methodology was used to identify research conducted within the last decade, current regulatory standards, and government publications regarding emerging pollutants in land applied biosolids. RESULTS Current research indicates that persistent organic compounds, or emerging pollutants, found in pharmaceuticals and personal care products, microplastics, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have the potential to contaminate ground and surface water, and the uptake of these substances from soil amended by the land application of biosolids can result in contamination of food sources. Advanced technologies to remove these contaminants from wastewater treatment plant influent, effluent, and biosolids destined for land application along with tools to detect and quantify emerging pollutants are critical for human health protection. CONCLUSIONS To address these current risks, there needs to be a significant investment in ongoing research and infrastructure support for advancements in wastewater treatment; expanded manufacture and use of sustainable products; increased public communication of the risks associated with overuse of pharmaceuticals and plastics; and development and implementation of regulations that are protective of health and the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Pozzebon
- California Conference of Directors of Environmental Health, P.O. Box 2017, Cameron Park, CA, 95682-2017, USA
| | - Lars Seifert
- California Conference of Directors of Environmental Health, P.O. Box 2017, Cameron Park, CA, 95682-2017, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ding N, Karvonen-Gutierrez CA, Zota AR, Mukherjee B, Harlow SD, Park SK. The role of exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in racial/ethnic disparities in hypertension: Results from the study of Women's health across the nation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 227:115813. [PMID: 37004857 PMCID: PMC10227830 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial/ethnic disparities in hypertension are a pressing public health problem. The contribution of environmental pollutants including PFAS have not been explored, even though certain PFAS are higher in Black population and have been associated with hypertension. OBJECTIVES We examined the extent to which racial/ethnic disparities in incident hypertension are explained by racial/ethnic differences in serum PFAS concentrations. METHODS We included 1058 hypertension-free midlife women with serum PFAS concentrations in 1999-2000 from the multi-racial/ethnic Study of Women's Health Across the Nation with approximately annual follow-up visits through 2017. Causal mediation analysis was conducted using accelerated failure time models. Quantile-based g-computation was used to evaluate the joint effects of PFAS mixtures. RESULTS During 11,722 person-years of follow-up, 470 participants developed incident hypertension (40.1 cases per 1000 person-years). Black participants had higher risks of developing hypertension (relative survival: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.45-0.76) compared with White participants, which suggests racial/ethnic disparities in the timing of hypertension onset. The percent of this difference in timing that was mediated by PFAS was 8.2% (95% CI: 0.7-15.3) for PFOS, 6.9% (95% CI: 0.2-13.8) for EtFOSAA, 12.7% (95% CI: 1.4-22.6) for MeFOSAA, and 19.1% (95% CI: 4.2, 29.0) for PFAS mixtures. The percentage of the disparities in hypertension between Black versus White women that could have been eliminated if everyone's PFAS concentrations were dropped to the 10th percentiles observed in this population was 10.2% (95% CI: 0.9-18.6) for PFOS, 7.5% (95% CI: 0.2-14.9) for EtFOSAA, and 17.5% (95% CI: 2.1-29.8) for MeFOSAA. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest differences in PFAS exposure may be an unrecognized modifiable risk factor that partially accounts for racial/ethnic disparities in timing of hypertension onset among midlife women. The study calls for public policies aimed at reducing PFAS exposures that could contribute to reductions in racial/ethnic disparities in hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Ding
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | | | - Ami R Zota
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bhramar Mukherjee
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Siobán D Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sung Kyun Park
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pelch KE, McKnight T, Reade A. 70 analyte PFAS test method highlights need for expanded testing of PFAS in drinking water. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 876:162978. [PMID: 37059129 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In this community-led pilot study we sought to investigate the utility of expanded per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) testing for drinking water, using a targeted analysis for 70 PFAS and the Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) Assay which can indicate the presence of precursor PFAS. PFAS were detected in 30 out of 44 drinking water samples across 16 states; 15 samples would exceed US EPA's proposed maximum contaminant levels for six PFAS. Twenty-six unique PFAS were identified, including 12 not covered by either US EPA Methods 537.1 or 533. An ultrashort chain PFAS, PFPrA, had the highest frequency of detection, occurring in 24 of 30 samples. It was also the PFAS reported at the highest concentration in 15 of these samples. We created a data filter to model how these samples would be reported under the upcoming fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) requirements. All of the 30 samples with PFAS quantified by the 70 PFAS test had one or more PFAS present that would not be captured if the UCMR5 reporting requirements were followed. Our analysis suggests the upcoming UCMR5 will likely underreport PFAS in drinking water, due to limited coverage and higher minimum reporting limits. Results were inconclusive on the utility of the TOP Assay for monitoring drinking water. The results from this study provide important information to community participants regarding their current PFAS drinking water exposure. In addition, these results suggest gaps that need to be addressed by regulatory and scientific communities, in particular, the need for expanded targeted analysis of PFAS, the development of a sensitive, broad spectrum PFAS test, and further investigation into ultrashort chain PFAS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Pelch
- Natural Resources Defense Council, 111 Sutter St. Floor 20, San Francisco, CA 94104, USA
| | - Taryn McKnight
- Eurofins Environment Testing, 880 Riverside Parkway, West Sacramento, CA 95605, USA
| | - Anna Reade
- Natural Resources Defense Council, 111 Sutter St. Floor 20, San Francisco, CA 94104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yoo HJ, Pyo MC, Rhee KH, Lim JM, Yang SA, Yoo MK, Lee KW. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and hexafluoropropylene oxide-dimer acid (GenX): Hepatic stress and bile acid metabolism with different pathways. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 259:115001. [PMID: 37196520 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and perfluoroalkyl ether carboxylic acids (PFECAs) are organic chemicals that are widely used in the manufacture of a wide range of human-made products. Many monitoring findings revealed the presence of PFASs and PFECAs in numerous environmental sources, including water, soil, and air, which drew more attention to both chemicals. Because of their unknown toxicity, the discovery of PFASs and PFECAs in a variety of environmental sources was viewed as a cause for concern. In the present study, male mice were given orally one of the typical PFASs, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and one of the representative PFECAs, hexafluoropropylene oxide-dimer acid (HFPO-DA). The liver index showing hepatomegaly rose significantly after 90 d of exposure to PFOA and HFPO-DA, respectively. While sharing similar suppressor genes, both chemicals demonstrated unique hepatotoxic mechanisms. In different ways, these two substances altered the expression of hepatic stress-sensing genes as well as the regulation of nuclear receptors. Not only are bile acid metabolism-related genes in the liver altered, but cholesterol metabolism-related genes as well. These results indicate that PFOA and HFPO-DA both cause hepatotoxicity and bile acid metabolism impairment with distinct mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Joon Yoo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Cheol Pyo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Hyun Rhee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Min Lim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Ah Yang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Ki Yoo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Won Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Department of Food Bioscience and Technology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhong T, Lin T, Zhang X, Jiang F, Chen H. Impact of biological activated carbon filtration and backwashing on the behaviour of PFASs in drinking water treatment plants. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 446:130641. [PMID: 36580789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PFASs are present in surface water, tap water and even commercial drinking water and pose a risk to human health. In this study, the treatment efficiency of 14 PFASs was studied in a large drinking water treatment plant (DWTP) using Taihu Lake as the source, and it was found that the ozone/biological activated carbon (O3-BAC) process was the most effective process for the removal of PFASs in DWTPs. For the O3-BAC process, there were differences in the removal of PFASs by BACs (1,4,7,13 years) of different ages. The sterilization experiments revealed that for GAC, its physical adsorption capacity reached saturation after one year, while for BAC with mature biofilms, biosorption was the main mechanism for the removal of PFASs. The abundance of Alphaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria in biofilms was positively correlated with the age of the BAC. The microbial community with higher abundance is beneficial to the biodegradation of organic matter and thus provides more active sites for the adsorption of PFASs. PFASs can leak in the early stage of filtration after backwashing, so it is necessary to pay close attention to the influent and effluent concentrations of PFASs during biofilm maturation after backwashing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zhong
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Tao Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Xue Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; Suzhou Water Supply Company, Suzhou 215002, PR China
| | - Fuchun Jiang
- Suzhou Water Supply Company, Suzhou 215002, PR China
| | - Han Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
LaKind JS, Naiman J, Verner MA, Lévêque L, Fenton S. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in breast milk and infant formula: A global issue. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 219:115042. [PMID: 36529330 PMCID: PMC9872587 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.115042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are transferred from mother to infants through breastfeeding, a time when children may be particularly vulnerable to PFAS-mediated adverse health effects. Infants can also be exposed to PFAS from infant formula consumption. Our recent literature-based scoping of breast milk levels reported that four PFAS often exceeded the United States Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) children's drinking water screening levels in both the general population and highly impacted communities in the U.S. and Canada. This work presents a comparison of global breast milk and infant formula PFAS measurements with the only reported health-based drinking water screening values specific to children. METHODS We focused on four PFAS for which ATSDR has developed children's drinking water screening values: PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), PFHxS (perfluorohexanesulfonic acid), and PFNA (perfluorononanoic acid). Published literature on PFAS levels in breast milk and infant formula were identified via PubMed searches. Data were compared to children's drinking water screening values. DISCUSSION Breast milk concentrations of PFOA and PFOS often exceed children's drinking water screening values, regardless of geographic location. The limited information on infant formula suggests its use does not necessarily result in lower PFAS exposures, especially for formulas reconstituted with drinking water containing PFAS. Unfortunately, individuals generally cannot know whether their infant's exposures exceed children's drinking water screening values. Thus, it is essential that pregnant and lactating women and others, especially those having lived in PFAS-contaminated communities, have data required to make informed decisions on infant nutrition. An international monitoring effort and access to affordable testing are needed for breast milk, drinking water and infant formula to fully understand infant PFAS exposures. Currently, our understanding of demonstrable methods for reducing exposures to emerging PFAS is limited, making this research and the communications surrounding it even more important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judy S LaKind
- LaKind Associates, LLC, 106 Oakdale Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W Baltimore St, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
| | - Josh Naiman
- Naiman Associates, LLC, 504 S 44th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Marc-Andre Verner
- Departement of Occuptional and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal School of Public Health, 2375 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Office 4105, Montreal (Québec) H3T 1A8 Canada; Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal and CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, CP 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montreal (Québec) H3C 3J7 Canada.
| | - Laura Lévêque
- Departement of Occuptional and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal School of Public Health, 2375 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Office 4105, Montreal (Québec) H3T 1A8 Canada; Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal and CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, CP 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montreal (Québec) H3C 3J7 Canada.
| | - Suzanne Fenton
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 111 TW Alexander Dr, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
McDonnell C, Albarghouthi FM, Selhorst R, Kelley-Loughnane N, Franklin AD, Rao R. Aerosol Jet Printed Surface-Enhanced Raman Substrates: Application for High-Sensitivity Detection of Perfluoroalkyl Substances. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:1597-1605. [PMID: 36643551 PMCID: PMC9835780 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c07134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Printing technologies offer an attractive means for producing low-cost surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates with high-throughput methods. The development of these substrates is especially important for field-deployable detection of environmental contaminants. Toward this end, we demonstrate SERS-based substrates fabricated through aerosol jet printing of silver nanoparticles and graphene inks on Kapton films. Our printed arrays exhibited measurable intensities for fluorescein and rhodamine dyes down to concentrations of 10-7 M, with the highest SERS intensities obtained for four print passes of Ag nanoparticles. The substrates also exhibited an excellent shelf life, with little reduction in fluorescein intensities after 9 months of shelf storage. We also demonstrated the capability of our substrates to sense perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the so-called forever chemicals that resist degradation due to their strong C-F bonds and persist in the environment. Interestingly, the addition of graphene to the Ag nanoparticles greatly enhanced the SERS intensity of the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) molecules under basic conditions (pH ∼ 9) compared to that of fluorescein and rhodamine. We were able to successfully detect SERS spectra from nano- and picomolar (∼0.4 ppt) concentrations of PFOA and PFOS, respectively, demonstrating the viability of deploying our SERS sensors in the environment for the ultrasensitive detection of contaminants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colleen McDonnell
- Materials
and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force
Research Laboratory, WPAFB, Ohio 45433, United States
- UES
Inc., Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
- Department
of Biology, University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio 46469, United States
| | - Faris M. Albarghouthi
- Department
of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Ryan Selhorst
- Materials
and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force
Research Laboratory, WPAFB, Ohio 45433, United States
- UES
Inc., Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Nancy Kelley-Loughnane
- Materials
and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force
Research Laboratory, WPAFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Aaron D. Franklin
- Department
of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Rahul Rao
- Materials
and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force
Research Laboratory, WPAFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bradley PM, Romanok KM, Smalling KL, Focazio MJ, Evans N, Fitzpatrick SC, Givens CE, Gordon SE, Gray JL, Green EM, Griffin DW, Hladik ML, Kanagy LK, Lisle JT, Loftin KA, Blaine McCleskey R, Medlock-Kakaley EK, Navas-Acien A, Roth DA, South P, Weis CP. Bottled water contaminant exposures and potential human effects. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 171:107701. [PMID: 36542998 PMCID: PMC10123854 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107701] [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: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bottled water (BW) consumption in the United States and globally has increased amidst heightened concern about environmental contaminant exposures and health risks in drinking water supplies, despite a paucity of directly comparable, environmentally-relevant contaminant exposure data for BW. This study provides insight into exposures and cumulative risks to human health from inorganic/organic/microbial contaminants in BW. METHODS BW from 30 total domestic US (23) and imported (7) sources, including purified tapwater (7) and spring water (23), were analyzed for 3 field parameters, 53 inorganics, 465 organics, 14 microbial metrics, and in vitro estrogen receptor (ER) bioactivity. Health-benchmark-weighted cumulative hazard indices and ratios of organic-contaminant in vitro exposure-activity cutoffs were assessed for detected regulated and unregulated inorganic and organic contaminants. RESULTS 48 inorganics and 45 organics were detected in sampled BW. No enforceable chemical quality standards were exceeded, but several inorganic and organic contaminants with maximum contaminant level goal(s) (MCLG) of zero (no known safe level of exposure to vulnerable sub-populations) were detected. Among these, arsenic, lead, and uranium were detected in 67 %, 17 %, and 57 % of BW, respectively, almost exclusively in spring-sourced samples not treated by advanced filtration. Organic MCLG exceedances included frequent detections of disinfection byproducts (DBP) in tapwater-sourced BW and sporadic detections of DBP and volatile organic chemicals in BW sourced from tapwater and springs. Precautionary health-based screening levels were exceeded frequently and attributed primarily to DBP in tapwater-sourced BW and co-occurring inorganic and organic contaminants in spring-sourced BW. CONCLUSION The results indicate that simultaneous exposures to multiple drinking-water contaminants of potential human-health concern are common in BW. Improved understandings of human exposures based on more environmentally realistic and directly comparable point-of-use exposure characterizations, like this BW study, are essential to public health because drinking water is a biological necessity and, consequently, a high-vulnerability vector for human contaminant exposures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nicola Evans
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Emily M Green
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - John T Lisle
- U.S. Geological Survey, Saint Petersburg, Florida, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul South
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Christopher P Weis
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ao Y, Nian M, Tang W, Zhang J, Zhang Q, Ao J. A sensitive and robust method for the simultaneous determination of thirty-three legacy and emerging per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in human plasma and serum. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:457-470. [PMID: 36383228 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04426-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Legacy and emerging per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have attracted growing attention due to their potential adverse effects on humans. We developed a method to simultaneously determine thirty-three PFAS (legacy PFAS, precursors, and alternatives) in human plasma and serum using solid phase extraction coupled to ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (SPE-UPLC-MS/MS). The method yielded good linearity (>0.995) and excellent limits of detection (LODs) (0.0005~0.012 ng mL-1 in plasma and 0.002~0.016 ng mL-1 in serum). The relative recoveries ranged from 80.1 to 116%, with intra- and inter-day precision less than 14.3%. The robustness of this method has been tested continuously for 10 months (coefficients of variation <14.9%). Our method was successfully applied to the PFAS analysis of 42 real human plasma and serum samples collected from women. The proposed method is attractive for the biomonitoring of multi-class PFAS in human health risk assessment and epidemiological studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ao
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 1665, Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Min Nian
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200082, China
| | - Weifeng Tang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 1665, Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 1665, Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.,School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Qianlong Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 1665, Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Junjie Ao
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 1665, Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chan WN, Harrison RG. Separation of perfluoroalkyl substances by ion chromatography with a resorcinarene stationary phase. SEPARATION SCIENCE PLUS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/sscp.202200136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wai Ning Chan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Brigham Young University Provo Utah USA
| | - Roger G. Harrison
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Brigham Young University Provo Utah USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chow SJ, Croll HC, Ojeda N, Klamerus J, Capelle R, Oppenheimer J, Jacangelo JG, Schwab KJ, Prasse C. Comparative investigation of PFAS adsorption onto activated carbon and anion exchange resins during long-term operation of a pilot treatment plant. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 226:119198. [PMID: 36240713 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.119198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Widespread contamination of groundwater with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has required drinking water producers to quickly adopt practical and efficacious treatments to limit human exposure and deleterious health outcomes. This pilot-scale study comparatively investigated PFAS adsorption behaviors in granular activated carbon (GAC) and two strong-base gel anion exchange resin (AER) columns operated in parallel over a 441-day period to treat contaminated groundwater dominated by short-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCA). Highly-resolved breakthrough profiles of homologous series of 2-8 CF2 PFCA and perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSA), including ultrashort-chain compounds and branched isomers, were measured to elucidate adsorption trends. Sample ports at intermediate bed depths could predict 50% breakthrough of compounds on an accelerated basis, but lower empty bed contact times led to conservative estimates of initial breakthrough. Homologous PFAS series displayed linear (GAC) and log-linear (AER) relationships between chain-length and breakthrough, independent of initial concentration. AERs generally outperformed GAC on a normalized bed volume basis, and this advantage widened with increasing PFAS chain-length. As designed, all treatments would have short full-scale service times (≤142 days for GAC; ≤61 days for AERs) before initial breakthrough of short-chain (2-4 CF2) PFCA. However, AER displayed far longer breakthrough times for PFSA compared to GAC (>3× treatment time), and breakthrough was not observed for PFSA with >4 CF2 in AERs. GAC had a finite molar adsorption capacity for total PFAS, leading to a stoichiometric replacement of short-chain PFCA by PFSA and longer-chain PFCA over time. AERs quickly reached a finite adsorption capacity for PFCA, but they showed substantially greater selectivity for PFSA whose capacity was not reached within the duration of the pilot. Breakthrough characteristics of keto- and unsaturated-PFSA, identified in the groundwater by suspect screening, were also evaluated in absence of reference standards. Modified PFAS structures (branched, keto-, unsaturated-) broke through faster than linear and unmodified perfluorinated structures with equal degrees of fluorination, and the effects were more pronounced in GAC compared to AERs. The results highlight that the design of robust PFAS treatment systems should consider facets beyond current PFAS targets including operational complexities and impacts of unregulated and unmonitored co-contaminants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Chow
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Henry C Croll
- Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Des Moines, IA 50315, USA
| | - Nadezda Ojeda
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jamie Klamerus
- Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA
| | - Ryan Capelle
- Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA
| | - Joan Oppenheimer
- Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Pasadena, California 91101, USA
| | - Joseph G Jacangelo
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Washington, DC 20005, USA
| | - Kellogg J Schwab
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Carsten Prasse
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Jiao E, Zhu Z, Yin D, Qiu Y, Kärrman A, Yeung LWY. A pilot study on extractable organofluorine and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water from drinking water treatment plants around Taihu Lake, China: what is missed by target PFAS analysis? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2022; 24:1060-1070. [PMID: 35687097 DOI: 10.1039/d2em00073c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have raised concerns due to their worldwide occurrence and adverse effects on both the environment and humans as well as posing challenges for monitoring. Further collection of information is required for a better understanding of their occurrence and the unknown fractions of the extractable organofluorine (EOF) not explained by commonly monitored target PFAS. In this study, eight pairs of raw and treated water were collected from drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) around Taihu Lake in China and analyzed for EOF and 34 target PFAS. Mass balance analysis of organofluorine revealed that at least 68% of EOF could not be explained by target PFAS. Relatively higher total target concentrations were observed in 4 DWTPs (D1 to D4) when compared to other samples with the highest sum concentration up to 189 ng L-1. PFOA, PFOS and PFHxS were the abundant compounds. Suspect screening analysis identified 10 emerging PFAS (e.g., H-PFAAs, H-PFESAs and OBS) in addition to target PFAS in raw or treated water. The ratios PFBA/PFOA and PFBS/PFOS between previous and current studies showed significant replacements of short-chain to long-chain PFAS. The ratios of the measured PFAS concentrations to the guideline values showed that some of the treated drinking water exceeds guideline values, appealing for efforts on drinking water safety guarantee.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enmiao Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, China.
| | - Zhiliang Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, China.
| | - Daqiang Yin
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, China.
| | - Yanling Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, China.
| | - Anna Kärrman
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Centre (MTM), School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Sweden.
| | - Leo W Y Yeung
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Centre (MTM), School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Croll HC, Chow S, Ojeda N, Schwab K, Prasse C, Capelle R, Klamerus J, Oppenheimer J, Jacangelo JG. Adaptation of selected models for describing competitive per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances breakthrough curves in groundwater treated by granular activated carbon. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 433:128804. [PMID: 35366450 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Granular activated carbon (GAC) has proven to be a successful technology for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) removal from contaminated drinking water supplies. Proper design of GAC treatment relies upon characterization of media service-life, which can change significantly depending on the PFAS contamination, treatment media, and water quality, and is often determined by fitting descriptive models to breakthrough curves. However, while common descriptive breakthrough models are favored for their ease-of-use, they have a significant shortcoming in that they are not able to properly fit PFAS desorption in competitive sorption scenarios. The present work adapts three common descriptive models to fit competitive PFAS breakthrough curves from a GAC pilot study. The adapted and original models were fit to the experimental breakthrough curves for 12 common PFAS and evaluated using adjusted R2 and reduced χ2 values. This study found that the novel adaptation of the common descriptive models successfully accounted for desorption of PFAS compounds from the GAC, accurately describing increased exposure risks due to elevated effluent levels during desorption without significantly increasing the complexity of implementing the models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry C Croll
- Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Des Moines, IA 50322, USA
| | - Steven Chow
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Nadezda Ojeda
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Kellogg Schwab
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Carsten Prasse
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | | | | | - Joan Oppenheimer
- Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Washington DC 20005, USA
| | - Joseph G Jacangelo
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA; Institute for Water Technology and Policy, Stantec, Washington DC 20005, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wu C, Wang Q, Chen H, Li M. Rapid quantitative analysis and suspect screening of per-and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) and municipal wastewater samples by Nano-ESI-HRMS. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 219:118542. [PMID: 35550967 PMCID: PMC10492922 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A rapid analytical method for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) combining nano-electrospray ionization and high-resolution mass spectrometry (Nano-ESI-HRMS) was developed and applied to aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) and wastewater samples collected from three local wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This method exhibited high sensitivity with lower limits of detection (LODs) of 3.2∼36.2 ng/L for 22 target PFAS analytes. In AFFF formulations, Nano-ESI-HRMS enabled the first-time detection of trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMS), perfluoroethyl cyclohexanesulfonate (PFECHS), 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonyl amido sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSAS-SO2), N-ammoniopropyl perfluoroalkanesulfonamidopropylsulfonate (N-AmP-FASAPS, n = 3-6), ketone-perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (Keto-PFOS), fluorotelomer unsaturated amide sulfonic acid (FTUAmS, n = 7), and 6:2 fluorotelomer amide (6:2 FTAm). Their structures were verified by the tandem MS analysis using collision-induced dissociation. Further, the combination of absolute and semi-quantification results revealed 16 PFASs from 9 PFAS classes as dominant AFFF constituents, accounting for 88.2∼96.5% of the total detected anionic and zwitterionic PFASs, including perfluorinated sulfonic acids (PFSAs, n = 1,4∼8), 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonates (6:2 FTS), fluorotelomer thioether amido sulfonic acid (FTSAS, n = 6,8), fluorotelomer sulfinyl amido sulfonic acid (FTSAS-SO, n = 6,8), N-AmP-FASAPS (n = 6), 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide alkylbetaine (6:2 FTAB), perfluoroalkylsulfonamido amino carboxylate (PFASAC, n = 6), 2-((perfluorooctyl)thio)acetatic acid (Thio-8:2 FTCA), and 6:2 FTAm. At WWTPs, aerobic and anaerobic biotransformation of PFAS precursors at the aeration tanks and secondary clarifiers were evident by the generation of mid/short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids, such as perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), as well as the emergence of ultrashort trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and TFMS and several novel fluorotelomer carboxylic acids (FTCAs). Overall, Nano-ESI-HRMS enabled comprehensive PFAS quantitative analysis and suspect screening, applicable for rapid investigation and assessment of PFAS-related exposure and treatment in environmental matrixes. Our results also revealed that AFFFs and municipal wastewaters are two key sources contributing to the prevalent detection of ultrashort-chain PFASs (e.g., TFMS and TFA) in water.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, 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.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Removal of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances by Electron Beam and Plasma Irradiation: A Mini-Review. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14111684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The global prevalence and environmental risks of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have caused increasing concern regarding their strategic elimination from aqueous environments. It has recently been recognized that advanced oxidation–reduction technologies (AO/RTs) exhibit superior removal performance for these ubiquitous pollutants. However, the detailed mechanisms and product risks have not been well summarized and systematically deciphered. In this mini-review article, the basic operating principles of two typical AO/RTs (electron beam and plasma irradiation) and their reported applications in the abatement of PFASs are described in detail. It is noteworthy that these reductive treatments induced remarkable defluorination efficiency of PFOA and PFOS with the generation of short-chain congeners in water. The reaction mechanisms mainly included desulfonization, decarboxylation, H/F exchange, radical cyclization, and stepwise losses of CF2 groups. Unexpectedly, partial degradation products manifested high potential in triggering acute and chronic aquatic toxicity, genotoxicity, and developmental toxicity. Additionally, high or even increased resistance to biodegradability was observed for multiple products relative to the parent chemicals. Taken together, both electron beam and plasma irradiation hold great promise in remediating PFAS-contaminated water and wastewater, while the secondary ecological risks should be taken into account during practical applications.
Collapse
|
31
|
Neuwald IJ, Hübner D, Wiegand HL, Valkov V, Borchers U, Nödler K, Scheurer M, Hale SE, Arp HPH, Zahn D. Ultra-Short-Chain PFASs in the Sources of German Drinking Water: Prevalent, Overlooked, Difficult to Remove, and Unregulated. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:6380-6390. [PMID: 35507024 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c07949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been a focal point of environmental chemistry and chemical regulation in recent years, culminating in a shift from individual PFAS regulation toward a PFAS group regulatory approach in Europe. PFASs are a highly diverse group of substances, and knowledge about this group is still scarce beyond the well-studied, legacy long-chain, and short-chain perfluorocarboxylates (PFCAs) and perfluorosulfonates (PFSAs). Herein, quantitative and semiquantitative data for 43 legacy short-chain and ultra-short-chain PFASs (≤2 perfluorocarbon atoms for PFCAs, ≤3 for PFSAs and other PFASs) in 46 water samples collected from 13 different sources of German drinking water are presented. The PFASs considered include novel compounds like hexafluoroisopropanol, bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, and tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate. The ultra-short-chain PFASs trifluoroacetate, perfluoropropanoate, and trifluoromethanesulfonate were ubiquitous and present at the highest concentrations (98% of sum target PFAS concentrations). "PFAS total" parameters like the adsorbable organic fluorine (AOF) and total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay were found to provide only an incomplete picture of PFAS contamination in these water samples by not capturing these highly prevalent ultra-short-chain PFASs. These ultra-short-chain PFASs represent a major challenge for drinking water production and show that regulation in the form of preventive measures is required to manage them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle J Neuwald
- Hochschule Fresenius gemGmbH, Limburger Straße 2, Idstein 65510, Germany
| | - Daniel Hübner
- Hochschule Fresenius gemGmbH, Limburger Straße 2, Idstein 65510, Germany
| | - Hanna L Wiegand
- IWW Zentrum Wasser, Moritzstraße 26, Mülheim an der Ruhr 45476, Germany
| | - Vassil Valkov
- IWW Zentrum Wasser, Moritzstraße 26, Mülheim an der Ruhr 45476, Germany
| | - Ulrich Borchers
- IWW Zentrum Wasser, Moritzstraße 26, Mülheim an der Ruhr 45476, Germany
| | - Karsten Nödler
- TZW: DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser, Karlsruher Straße 84, Karlsruhe 76139, Germany
| | - Marco Scheurer
- TZW: DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser, Karlsruher Straße 84, Karlsruhe 76139, Germany
| | - Sarah E Hale
- Norwegian Geotechnical Institute, Postboks 3930 Ulleval Stadion, Oslo 0806, Norway
| | - Hans Peter H Arp
- Norwegian Geotechnical Institute, Postboks 3930 Ulleval Stadion, Oslo 0806, Norway
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim 7491, Norway
| | - Daniel Zahn
- Hochschule Fresenius gemGmbH, Limburger Straße 2, Idstein 65510, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wang YQ, Hu LX, Liu T, Zhao JH, Yang YY, Liu YS, Ying GG. Per- and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water system: Target and non-target screening and removal assessment. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 163:107219. [PMID: 35405506 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The massive use and the persistence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have led to their frequent detection in aquatic environments, which may further threaten drinking water safety. So far, our knowledge about the occurrence of PFAS in drinking water system is still very limited. Here we investigated the occurrence and removal of PFAS in a drinking water system using non-target, suspect and target screening strategies. Sampling was performed in three seasons in the drinking water system including a water source, two drinking water treatment plants, and tap water in five households. The results showed detection of 17 homologous series with 51 homologues in non-target screening and 50 potential PFAS detected in suspect screening. Probable structures were proposed for 15 PFAS with high confidence levels (the first three of the five levels), with seven of them being reported for the first time in drinking water system. Semi-quantification was performed on seven homologous series based on target PFAS, the estimated total concentrations for non-target PFAS ranged between 4.10 and 17.6 ng/L. Nine out of 50 target PFAS were found and precisely quantified (<LOQ-13.4 ng/L) with predominance of perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCA) and perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSA). All target and non-target PFAS were detected in tap water with similar concentrations in all three seasons. Removal efficiency for the detected PFAS in each processing unit was almost zero, indicating the recalcitrance of these chemicals to the conventional treatment process. The findings from this study clearly show the wide presence of PFAS in the whole drinking water treatment process, and suggest an urgent need for effective removal technology for this group of chemicals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qing Wang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Li-Xin Hu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Ting Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jia-Hui Zhao
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Yang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - You-Sheng Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lenka SP, Kah M, Padhye LP. Occurrence and fate of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in urban waters of New Zealand. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 428:128257. [PMID: 35063834 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Information on the occurrence of PFAS in aquatic matrices of countries with no PFAS manufacturing, e.g., New Zealand, is limited. Also, the fingerprint of PFAS along an urban water cycle, following water path from wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent to treated drinking water has not been widely assessed. Hence, 38 long-, short-, ultrashort-chain PFAS and fluorinated alternatives (including precursors) were monitored in this study by collecting composite samples from two urban WWTPs of New Zealand and grab samples from the water bodies receiving the WWTPs' effluents and a drinking water treatment plant, whose source water received the effluent of one of the studied WWTPs. ∑PFAS at concentrations 0.1 - 13 ng/L were detected in all wastewater samples, including influents and different treatment stages of the two WWTPs (WW1 and WW2). The fate of most PFAS was similar in the two WWTPs, despite large differences in WWTPs' PFAS loads in the influents, serving populations (1.6 vs 0.16 million), total capacities (300 vs 54 million liters per day), and designs (aerobic and anoxic secondary treatment vs aerobic only). The fate of PFAS in WWTPs appeared to be driven by a range of processes. For instance, a simultaneous increase (41.6%) in short-chain perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) concentrations and decrease (49.7%) in precursor 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS) concentrations after secondary biological treatment suggested possible transformation of 6:2 FTS into PFHxA during the treatment. In contrast, the reason behind an average decrease of 35% in ultrashort-chain perfluoropropionic acid (PFPrA) concentrations after treatment was unclear, and further studies are recommended. The concentrations of a linear isomer of long-chain perfluorosulfonic acid (PFOS-L) decreased (48%) in the effluent, possibly due to its partitioning to sludge. Although the concentrations of PFAS in coastal waters suggested that the WW1 effluent is a potential source of PFAS, earlier dispersion model and no detection of PFAS in the receiving waters of WW2 implied that other sources, such as septic systems, peripheral industries, and the airport, could also be contributing to PFAS in coastal waters. The source of ultrashort-chain PFPrA (5.5 ng/L) detected in the treated drinking water produced from that river was unclear. The monitoring results confirm incomplete removal of PFAS in WWTPs, indicate a possible transformation of unknown precursors present in wastewater into short-chain perfluoroalkylcarboxylic acids (PFCAs) during biological treatment, and reveal a possible accumulation of perfluoroalkylsulfonic acids (PFSAs) in the sludge, overall suggesting the circulation of PFAS in urban water systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Melanie Kah
- School of Environment, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lokesh P Padhye
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Helmer RW, Reeves DM, Cassidy DP. Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) cycling within Michigan: Contaminated sites, landfills and wastewater treatment plants. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 210:117983. [PMID: 34954365 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) from public and private sources in Michigan compiled for wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) (influent, effluent, biosolids), contaminated sites, and landfill leachates reveal complex cycling within the natural and engineered environment. Analysis of 171 contaminated sites in Michigan by source release indicate four dominant PFAS sources - landfills, aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), metal platers, and automotive/metal stamping - account for 75% of the contamination. Diverse chemical signatures were observed for leachates collected from 19 landfills (mostly type II municipal) with the dominant PFAS ranging from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) to shorter-chained compounds, perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), and perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS). Analysis of PFAS carbon chain length as a function of landfill age shows the transition of C8s in leachate from older landfills to C4s and C6s in younger landfills, consistent with the phasing out and replacement of C8s. PFAS mass flux in leachate for landfills studied range between 5 - 2,000 g/yr and are highest for active landfills, which generate greater leachate volumes and contain fresh PFAS wastes. Detailed study of 10 WWTPs with industrial pretreatment programs indicate numerous chemical transformations across the plants that yield effluent PFAS concentrations as much as 19 times greater than influent, attributed to transformations of unmeasured precursors in the influent to measured, stable PFAS in the effluent. PFOA, PFHxA, perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), PFBA, and PFBS show the greatest increases across the plant ranging from 20% to nearly 2,000%. PFOS concentrations decreased across 6 WWTPs, consistent with a strong tendency to adsorb onto biosolids. Estimated mass of discharge of (mostly unregulated) PFAS from WWTPs to receiving waters range from 40 g/yr to 128 kg/yr.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ross W Helmer
- Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Western Michigan University, 1903W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5241, USA; Water Resources Division, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, 525W. Allegan St, Lansing, MI, 48933, USA
| | - Donald M Reeves
- Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Western Michigan University, 1903W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5241, USA.
| | - Daniel P Cassidy
- Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Western Michigan University, 1903W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5241, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Niu XZ, Abrell L, Sierra-Alvarez R, Field JA, Chorover J. Analysis of hydrophilic per- and polyfluorinated sulfonates including trifluoromethanesulfonate using solid phase extraction and mixed-mode liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A 2022; 1664:462817. [PMID: 35032899 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2022.462817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ultra-hydrophilic per- and polyfluorinated sulfonates (PFSA) are increasingly scrutinized in recent years due to their ubiquitous occurrence, persistence, and aqueous mobility in the environment, yet analysis remains a challenge. This study developed methods for the analysis of trifluoromethanesulfonate, perfluorobutanesulfonate, 10-camphorsulfonate, and a di-fluorinated sulfonate utilizing mixed-mode liquid chromatography, where all analytes were adequately retained and separated. Chromatography and electrospray ionization parameters were optimized; instrumental limits of quantification for the anionic target analytes were in the range of 4.3 - 16.1 ng L-1. Solid phase extraction (SPE) methods were developed using Oasis WAX cartridges; SPE recoveries for the analytes ranged from 86% to 125%. Salinity and total organic carbon both impaired the SPE performance to different extents, depending on the respective analyte. Utilizing widely accessible instrumentation and materials, this is a single method to simultaneously analyze conceivably the most hydrophilic PFAS chemical, i.e., trifluoromethanesulfonate, and moderately hydrophobic PFSAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Zhi Niu
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, The University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210011, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Department of Environmental Science & Arizona Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Leif Abrell
- Department of Environmental Science & Arizona Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Reyes Sierra-Alvarez
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, The University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210011, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Jim A Field
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, The University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210011, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Jon Chorover
- Department of Environmental Science & Arizona Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Björnsdotter MK, Yeung LWY, Kärrman A, Jogsten IE. Mass Balance of Perfluoroalkyl Acids, Including Trifluoroacetic Acid, in a Freshwater Lake. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:251-259. [PMID: 34927432 PMCID: PMC8733927 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c04472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are highly persistent chemicals that are ubiquitously found in the environment. The atmospheric degradation of precursor compounds has been identified as a source of PFAAs and might be an important pathway for contamination. Lake Vättern is one of Sweden's largest lakes and is an important source for drinking water. In addition to contamination via atmospheric deposition, the lake is subject to several potential contamination sources via surface water inflow. The relevance of different sources is not well understood. A mass balance of selected PFAAs was assembled based on measured concentrations in atmospheric deposition, surface water from streams that constitute the main inflow and outflow, and surface water in the lake. The largest input was seen for trifluoroacetic acid (150 kg/year), perfluoropropanoic acid (1.6 kg/year), perfluorobutanoic acid (4.0 kg/year), and perfluoro-octanoic acid (1.5 kg/year). Both atmospheric deposition and surface water inflow was found to be important input pathways. There was a positive correlation between the input of most perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids via atmospheric deposition and global radiation and between the input via surface water inflow and catchment area. These findings highlight the importance of atmospheric oxidation of volatile precursor compounds for contamination in surface waters.
Collapse
|