Residential Per- and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Sources

Rodgers, Lucas; Phan, Steven; Harvill, Christopher; Evans, Dora

Student Work

Residential Per- and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Sources

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Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are fluorinated organic polymers. They are a group of many different compounds that, due to the carbon-fluorine bond strength, are highly stable and recalcitrant. They have hydrophobic and lipophilic properties, therefore are used in many household products. The main way PFAS enters the environment is through releases from large industrial or waste treatment sites. However, they can also be released to the environment through residential sources such as septic systems. The biggest problem with PFAS in the environment is that they do not break down naturally. The goal of this project was to show that PFAS are making their way into residential septic systems from the usage of products containing PFAS by residents. From four towns, Pepperell, Groton, Rutland, and West Boylston, 233 addresses were selected as viable testing sites and surveys were designed and sent to the residences. Ten responses were received and two sites were tested for PFAS in septic systems. Both Site 1 and Site 2 had PFAS present in both tap and septic. An increase in specific PFAS was observed from tap to septic. In Site 1 PFOA is the most concentrated species of PFAS, whereas in Site 2 PFOA is barely present. As well in Site 1 PFOS is hardly present but in Site 2 it has the highest concentration. It is recommended that a Phase II data collection trial be done using a more robust testing methodology with wider scope to draw more significant conclusions.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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