The stubborn “chemical invader”: Challenges and solutions for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Chinese sewage sludge
By Yiqun Guo, Yu Hua, Wan Yang, Jianfeng Zhou, Lihua Wang, and Xiaohu Dai
ACS EST Water
February 17, 2025
DOI: 10.1021/acsestwater.5c00065
Attention to the governance of emerging contaminants has never been greater against the backdrop of the global response to the pressure of climate change and the challenge of sustainable development. As one of these, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) constitute a family of synthetic fluorine-containing compounds that were first developed by 3M Company in the United States and later transferred to China. Due to its unique hydrophobic and oleophobic properties and excellent thermochemical stability, PFAS are widely used in various industrial and commercial products. However, a large number of studies have shown that PFAS have seriously threatened the ecological environment and human health. (1) Because they contain a C–F bond, which is the strongest bond in the world, PFAS are highly resistant and extremely difficult to degrade under natural conditions. (2) In recent years, the concern about PFAS shows an exponential surge. Many countries in Europe and America have enacted extremely stringent PFAS control measures. In the 2023 version of the 14 emerging contaminants control list announced by China, PFAS-like substances occupy three seats.
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