Investigation of novel PFAS, including PFAA precursors, to assess soil washing-based remediation

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitously found in the environment. While much attention has been paid to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), their substitutes, such as short-chained PFAS and polyfluorinated compounds are mostly overlooked and are largely not included in routine PFAS analysis. Remediation of contaminated sites focusing mostly on removal of PFOS, PFOA and PFHxS overlook the presence of precursors, although these may gradually transform into perfluoroalkyl acids. Analysis of precursor compounds can be particularly challenging due to complex matrices, lack of available standards, and low concentrations. Analytical methods outside of typical targeted liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) need to be incorporated in order to fully understand PFAA precursor presence and transformation pathways. This project aims to investigate perfluoroalkyl acid (PFAA) precursor prevalence and transformation in contaminated soils for the purpose of assessing effectiveness of soil remediation techniques.

Kristie has spent over a decade working as a research assistant at QAEHS after completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours. She has extensive experience in sampling and analytical techniques, as well as human biomonitoring. Kristie began her PhD in 2018, and is focusing on identifying novel poly- and per-fluoroalkyl substances and tracking their formation and fate in the environment.

Please note this is a PhD Student Mid-candidature seminar.