Adsorption of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) from aqueous solution - A review

• Published in: The Science of the total environment 2019-12, Vol.694, p.133606, Article 133606
• Main Authors: Zhang, D.Q., Zhang, W.L., Liang, Y.N.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adsorption; Isotherms; Kinetics; Mechanisms; Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs)
• ISSN: 0048-9697; 1879-1026
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.133606

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have gained increasingly global attention in recent years. Due to their unique amphiphilic properties and stability, PFASs are recognized as highly persistent, toxic, and environmentally bioaccumulative. Among several physicochemical technologies, adsorption has been extensively used and proved to be an effective method for removing PFASs from aqueous environment. In this review article, the technical feasibility of the use of different adsorbents, such as activated carbon, ion exchange resins, minerals, molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and a wide range of potentially low-cost biosorbents, for PFASs removal from water or wastewater is critically reviewed. The evaluation and comparison of their PFASs sorption behavior in terms of kinetics and isotherms is presented. The mechanisms involved in PFASs adsorption processes, such as diffusion, electrostatic interaction, hydrophobic interaction, ion exchange and hydrogen bond, are discussed. The effects of the parameters variability on sorption process are highlighted. Based on the literature reviewed, a few recommendations for future research on PFASs adsorption are also elaborated. Capsule: The adsorption behavior and mechanisms of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) on various adsorbents are reviewed. [Display omitted] •Resins and CNTs exhibit higher adsorption capacity than other adsorbents.•Biosorbents have great potential for efficient PFAS removal with cost-effectiveness.•Adsorption mechanisms involve electrostatic interaction, hydrophobic interaction and ion exchange.•The environmental parameters can influence PFASs adoption performance.