Comprehensive Review of Global Perspectives on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Compounds: Occurrence, Fate, and Remediation in Groundwater Systems

Mohammed Benaafi*, Abdullah Bafaqeer

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

Groundwater contamination with per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFASs) has become a growing worldwide environmental issue. The current review comprehensively evaluates the global perspective of PFAS pollution in groundwater. Data from 224 recent research articles covering various land use and source types were reviewed, including industrial facilities, landfills, biosolids applications, and firefighting training sites. The bibliographic analysis shows an exponential increase in publications on PFAS pollution in groundwater in the last five years, with more than 50% coming from the USA, followed by Australia, Canada, China, and Sweden. The recent groundwater PFAS pollution research provides insight into the analytical techniques, absorbing materials, treatment strategies, field tests, and enhanced natural attenuation. Nevertheless, the current review identified significant research gaps in the areas of precursor characterization, subsurface behavior, model validation with field data, and long-term and sustainable solutions. Moreover, a global cross-disciplinary approach is required to reduce and regulate PFASs’ risks to humans and the ecological system. This review presents a case study of PFASs in Saudi Arabian groundwater, revealing elevated levels of PFOA and PFOS and highlighting the need for region-specific studies and remediation strategies. The review results will guide global efforts to protect drinking water supplies from life-threatening contaminants.

Original languageEnglish
Article number1583
JournalWater (Switzerland)
Volume16
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2024 by the authors.

Keywords

  • PFAS
  • emerging contaminant
  • groundwater quality
  • sustainability

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • Aquatic Science
  • Water Science and Technology

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