Avoiding Regrettable Replacements: Can the Introduction of Novel Functional Groups Move PFAS from Recalcitrant to Reactive?

Abstract

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are present in a range of commercial and consumer products. These chemicals are often high-performance surfactants or nonstick/ water-repellant coatings due to their chemical stability; however, this stability leads to select PFAS being environmentally persistent.

Water Analysis: Emerging Contaminants and Current Issues

“…A new study by Folkerson et al explored the idea of using novel functional groups in PFAS to make them more reactive in the environment. 27 New building blocks with ethers, thioethers, and polyfluorinated carbons were explored with OH oxidation. Thioether congeners degraded the fastest, and F 3 C−O−CHF−CH 2 −S−CH 2 − CH 2 −OH was fully mineralized.…”

“…Over the years, manufacturers have shifted production to shorter-chain PFAS and other alternatives like GenX, which are now widely found in the environment and often viewed as “regrettable replacements”. A new study by Folkerson et al explored the idea of using novel functional groups in PFAS to make them more reactive in the environment . New building blocks with ethers, thioethers, and polyfluorinated carbons were explored with OH oxidation.…”