ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a review of the nomenclature and unique properties of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) frequently detected in the environment. It presents the occurrence and fate of these PFASs in contaminated soil and groundwater, especially from areas impacted by aqueous film forming foams, and their potential interactions with co-contaminants. The chapter explores the treatment technologies for PFAS-contaminated groundwater and soil, especially resulting from firetraining operations. PFASs comprise a diverse group of fluorinated organic chemicals that are oil and water repelling and include a lipophobic or hydrophilic functional ionic head. Two primary pathways that allow PFASs to enter the groundwater are production and use of materials containing PFAS components and wastewater effluent discharge generated from industrial processes that use PFASs. Due to their unique physicochemical properties, the remediation and treatment of PFAS-contaminated water is challenging. Adsorption to activated carbon is a promising and commonly used technique in PFAS remediation.
