A Componential Evaluation of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Streams
By Yalan Liu, Nicole M Robey, John A Bowden, Thabet M Tolaymat, Helena M Solo-Gabriele, and Timothy G Townsend
Environ Sci Technol
December 30, 2025
DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5c16358
Understanding the sources and mobility of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in municipal solid waste (MSW) is critical for evaluating their environmental release. This study analyzed 22 MSW subcomponents sorted from 1000 kg of waste for 67 PFAS compounds using standardized leaching tests (/ = 10). The highest levels were found in polycoated aseptic containers (36 ng/g), rubber, leather, and textiles (25 ng/g), and yard waste (11 ng/g). Other paper, plastic, electronics, and construction and demolition waste had moderate PFAS levels (0.6-8.9 ng/g), while glass had the lowest (0.13 ng/g). PFAS profiles varied across materials, with some dominated by terminal perfluoroalkyl acids and others dominated by precursors such as FTCAs. The weighted average PFAS concentration across the waste stream was 4.1 ng/g. To assess broader implications, measured concentrations were extrapolated to national MSW composition data. Based on an assumed 10% leachability factor from prior studies, the total PFAS mass in MSW may be closer to 16,000 kg/year, with about 1600 kg per year potentially leachable. Of the leachable portion, approximately 780 kg enters landfills, where much of it is likely mobilized into leachate. The remaining leachable mass was distributed across recycling (330 kg), composting (220 kg), and combustion (230 kg). Although rubber, leather, and textiles comprise only 9% of the national MSW by weight, they account for an estimated 38% of leachable PFAS mass. These materials represent priority targets for mitigation through product reformulation, source segregation, and improved end-of-life treatment to minimize environmental release.
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