On demand: challenges and opportunities in PFAS analysis

Ian Ross and Nicholas Gonda explore the complexities of PFAS contamination, provide insights on innovative analytical methods, and discuss emerging solutions in environmental management.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become a critical focus in environmental science. This is due to their persistence, mobility, and widespread impact.

Envirotech Online's recent webinar provided an in-depth exploration of PFAS forensic analysis, covering the science, history, and challenges of identifying these 'forever chemicals.'

Presented by experts Ian Ross and Nick Gonda, the session emphasized the importance of advanced analytical tools and methodologies in tackling PFAS contamination.

The science behind PFAS

PFAS, a group of over seven million organic molecules, have been in production since the 1930s.

These chemicals are known for their extreme resistance to degradation. They often persist in the environment as more stable compounds.

Their properties - such as bioaccumulation and mobility - pose significant environmental and health risks.

The longer-chain PFAS, like PFOA and PFOS, are especially notorious for accumulating in humans and the food chain. While shorter-chain variants are more mobile but less bioaccumulative.

The webinar highlighted the transformation of PFAS precursors into regulated compounds. It emphasized the importance of understanding these processes for effective forensics.

Ian used the analogy of stone arrowheads to describe how persistent compounds remain in the environment, even as their precursors degrade.

Advanced analytical tools for PFAS forensics

Forensic analysis of PFAS requires a multi-faceted approach. It employs both targeted and non-targeted methods.

Ian and Nicolas explored techniques such as high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and the Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) assay.

These tools enable the identification of specific PFAS compounds, their sources, and their transformation pathways.

HRMS, for example, allows researchers to detect unique PFAS compounds with high accuracy. Despite an absence of analytical standards.

Meanwhile, NMR provides insights into molecular structures, including functional group identities.

These advanced methods are essential for distinguishing PFAS sources, such as firefighting foams or industrial processes. As well as for determining the efficacy of remediation efforts.

Challenges and the path forward

Despite significant advancements, PFAS analysis remains complex.

Traditional targeted methods often miss many PFAS compounds. This necessitates the use of broader non-targeted approaches.

Nicolas' evidence emphasized the importance of understanding PFAS manufacturing processes, environmental behavior, and regulatory criteria to develop effective forensic strategies.

Key takeaways:

1. Understanding PFAS complexity: learn how PFAS persist and transform in the environment, and why identifying their sources is critical
2. Innovative analytical techniques: discover how advanced tools like HRMS and TOP assay provide deeper insights into PFAS contamination
3. Forensics in action: explore case studies that demonstrate the role of forensic analysis in pinpointing PFAS sources and informing remediation efforts.

To gain a deeper understanding of PFAS forensic analysis and explore the full range of tools and techniques discussed, watch the webinar on demand.

Dive into the complexities of PFAS and equip yourself with the knowledge to tackle these persistent environmental challenges.

To view the webinar on demand at a time that suits you, simply click here.