A Mathematical Model for the Release, Transport, and Retention of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the Vadose Zone.

ABSTRACT: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are emerging contaminants of critical concern. As surfactants, PFAS tend to accumulate at air-water interfaces and may stay in the vadose zone for long times before contaminating groundwater. Yet not well understood, the extent of retention in the vadose zone has critical implications for risk management and remediation strategies. We present the first mathematical model that accounts for surfactant-induced flow and solid-phase and air-water interfacial adsorption. We apply the model to simulate PFOS (a PFAS compound of primary concern) transport in the vadose zone at a model fire-training area site impacted by Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF). Air-water interfacial adsorption is shown to have a significant impact-amplified by the low water conten

SUBMITTER: Guo B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7673302 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature