Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are common environmental contaminants. Because there are so many of these chemicals, it is difficult to measure the total amount of PFAS present in any sample.
This project will develop a new, rapid method to measure the total amount of PFAS in water samples so that the risks posed to humans or the environment can be evaluated quickly. The new method will be compared to the current method recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, the tool used for this measurement will also be used to measure how PFAS stick to proteins and other large molecules. This will aid in assessment of how PFAS move in the environment and their mechanisms of toxicity.