Chemical Sensor for PFOA and PFOS Detection

As emerging contaminants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) make up a large group of persistent anthropogenic chemicals that are persistent and not easily degradable in the environment. Recent studies in humans have shown that certain PFASs (e.g., perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS)) may negatively affect fetus development, child learning and behavior, adult fertility, hormonal balance, and liver function. Due to the long-term impact of these PFASs on human health, the lifetime exposure health advisory of PFOA and PFOS in drinking water recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is 70 parts per trillion (70 ng/mL or 70 ppt), which make their detection extremely challenge. In this study, we will develop a chemically functionalized surface or a sensing film, and then explore its applicability for PFOA or PFOS detection. The analytical characteristics such as the limit of detection, sensitivity and reproducibility will be systematically investigated.