Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS)

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS)

The “Forever” Chemicals

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) describe a vast class of fluorinated synthetic chemicals which possess oil/water-repellant and surfactant properties in addition to high chemical and thermal stability. Because of these unique properties, PFAS are widely utilized in consumer products, ranging from cookware to cosmetics, and industrial applications, like fire-fighting foams and chrome plating processes. However, these same properties lend to PFAS persistence and harm to humans and the environment alike. Toxicological research on select PFAS over the last decade, like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), has led to shifts in PFAS production, regulation, and management. However, many downstream sectors continue to face management challenges associated with PFAS-laden materials (i.e., municipal solid waste, contaminated soils, impacted pavements, wastewaters, and byproducts). The Sustainable Materials Management Research Laboratory, in collaboration with state and federal agencies, is working to address real-world PFAS management challenges faced by the solid waste sector. From the development of new methods for measuring emerging PFAS to the examination of PFAS fate in pavements through interdisciplinary approaches, our research team aims to answer knowledge gaps and provide actionable data for stakeholders, researchers, and policy makers alike.

Current Projects