Review of Strategies to Control Air Pollution due to PFAS

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals” have emerged as the next environmental threat due to their persistence and challenges in capture and control. The water contamination aspect of the PFAS has been extensively researched, however, the emissions into the atmosphere are a growing concern due to their volatility, long-range transport potential, and resistance to degradation. As a result of discovery of air pollution pathways of PFAS due to industrial processes, consumer usage and waste treatment, researchers have been identifying innovative technologies to mitigate the PFAS related air pollution. This study reviews various types of existing technologies such as oxidation, absorption and adsorption. In addition, a review of emerging technologies such as non-thermal plasma treatment was also investigated and presented in this study. Key research gaps and opportunities for future innovation were identified and possibilities of multi-prong approach were investigated to mitigate PFAS associated air pollution.