Naslov (eng)

Environmental Occurrence, Distribution, and Challenges of Pfas: A Global Perspective

Autor

Perović, Marija

Publisher

Opis (eng)

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a rapidly expanding group of synthetic compounds, often referred to as "forever chemicals," due to their exceptional chemical stability and resistance to degradation. These substances are widely used in various products, including cosmetics, textiles, fire-fighting foams, food packaging, and agricultural applications. PFAS are persistent, bioaccumulative, and pose potential health risks, leading to their classification as persistent organic pollutants. The presented research provides an overview of concentration levels and key characteristics of the most prevalent and extensively studied PFAS, such as PFOS and PFOA, which influence their environmental behaviour, aiding in tracing their sources and explaining their long-term presence in the environment. PFAS are found in surface and groundwater at concentrations ranging from ng/L to μg/L. Short-chain PFAS (with up to 8 carbon atoms) are more mobile in surface waters, while long-chain PFAS (with more than 8 carbon atoms) tend to accumulate in sediments and biota. Reviewed research has demonstrated that perfluorinated PFAS are highly stable and resistant to degradation, whereas polyfluorinated substances are less stable and tend to degrade into persistent perfluorinated components. Despite regulations like those under the EU Water Framework Directive and the Stockholm Convention, PFAS contamination remains widespread. Their global distribution is amplified by long-range atmospheric transport and regional industrial hotspots. Traditional wastewater treatment methods have proven largely ineffective at removing PFAS, allowing their continuous discharge into aquatic environments. While some countries have set regulations for PFAS in water, soil, and food products, there is a pressing need for more coordinated global efforts and innovative treatment technologies. This research aims to review the existing literature on the presence, characteristics, fate, and concentrations of PFAS in surface waters and groundwater globally, with an emphasis on understanding the specific traits of these compounds to better trace their sources and predict their transformation in aquatic environments.

Jezik

engleski

Datum

2025

Licenca

© All rights reserved

Predmet

PFAS, PFOS, PFOA, water bodies

Deo kolekcije (1)

o:243

Institut za vodoprivredu "Jaroslav Černi"