PFAS contaminated asphalt and concrete - Knowledge gaps for future research and management

By G.B. Douglas, J.L. Vanderzalm, M. Williams, J.K. Kirby, R.S. Kookana, T.P. Bastow, M. Bauer, K.C. Bowles, D. Skuse, G.B. Davis
Sci Total Environ
May 9, 2023
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164025

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are now widespread in the environment. Globally, airfields and paved firefighting training surfaces are particularly affected due to extensive use of aqueous film forming foams (AFFF). This PFAS contamination in exposed concrete and asphalt has not been widely addressed. This review focusses on PFAS interaction with concrete and asphalt, traversing extraction, analytical identification/quantification, PFAS fractionation via differential adsorption on organic and inorganic substrates, and reuse options for contaminated concrete and asphalt. A total of 24 knowledge gaps and management challenges for concrete and asphalt characterisation and management have been identified.

 

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Topics:

• ChemicalsPFAS
• Products
• ProductsFirefighting foam
• SourcesAirports
• SourcesManufacturing facilities
• SourcesMilitary bases
• Environment
• Wildlife
• Affected community
• Health