The release and fate of organofluoro 'forever chemicals' from wastewater treatment works

This project will investigate the role of wastewater treatment works (WWTWs) as potential major sources of per/polyfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) to rivers and coastal waters. PFAS are a broad group of chemicals including the perfluoroalkyl acids such as perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), both of which can bioaccumulate in humans and wildlife and give rise to an array of adverse effects. PFAS are used for a variety of purposes, including as processing aids in the manufacture of fluoropolymers, stain & water repellent coatings, non-stick pans, firefighting foams etc. PFAS therefore end up in runoff and wastewater streams. The project will investigate the role of WWTWs as sources of these chemicals relative to an array of diffusive sources impacting catchment waters.