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Unraveling PFAS-Microplastic Interactions

In-Depth Insights Gained Through Laboratory Experiments and Computational Modeling Approaches

  • 2025
  • Book
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About this book

This book systematically maps adsorption of eight PFAS across 18 synthetic polymers using trace-level LC-MS/MS, revealing near complete uptake by polyamides and minimal binding by polyethylene.

It shows that pH and polymer functionality, especially amide or carbonyl groups, govern uptake and provides practical guidance for PFAS analysis and remediation.

Table of Contents

Frontmatter
Chapter 1. Introduction
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals which contain aliphatic carbon atoms where hydrogen atoms have been replaced by fluorine atoms. PFAS can include both, perfluoroalkyl compounds (all hydrogen atoms on the carbon chain are replaced by fluorine atoms) and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (at least one but not all hydrogen atoms are replaced by fluorine atoms).
Konstantin Huter
Chapter 2. Experimental
Abstract
This thesis is based on preliminary findings and methodologies developed in collaboration with Johanna Freilinger, Christoph Kappacher, Konstantin Huter, Jan Back, Thomas S. Hofer, Christian W. Huck and Rania Bakry with the provisional title: Interactions between Perfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) and Microplastics (MPs): Findings from an Extensive Investigation. The manuscript of the published study is included in the appendix and available in the ESM. The experimental approaches and analytical techniques detailed herein are adapted from this collaborative effort.
Konstantin Huter
Chapter 3. Results and Discussion
Abstract
Preliminary experiments were conducted to address the problematic storage and adsorption characteristics of PFAS. First, three vial brands were evaluated to determine a suitable sample container: polypropylene (PP) vials from Agilent and Waters as well as amber glass vials from Labsolute®. Secondly, the syringe filter materials were tested, each featuring a 13 mm membrane diameter and a 0.22 \(\upmu \)m pore size.
Konstantin Huter
Chapter 4. Conclusion and Outlook
Abstract
The preliminary experiments underscore the significant impact of vial and filter materials on PFAS recovery. Glass vials caused substantial analyte loss, whereas Waters polypropylene (PP) vials preserved target concentrations accurately. Similarly, cellulose acetate (CA) filters demonstrated consistently minimal PFAS adsorption, making them an optimal choice for sample preparation.
Konstantin Huter
Backmatter
Title
Unraveling PFAS-Microplastic Interactions
Author
Konstantin Huter
Copyright Year
2025
Electronic ISBN
978-3-658-49859-7
Print ISBN
978-3-658-49858-0
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-658-49859-7

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    Image Credits
    in-adhesives, MKVS, Ecoclean/© Ecoclean, Hellmich GmbH/© Hellmich GmbH, Krahn Ceramics/© Krahn Ceramics, Kisling AG/© Kisling AG, ECHTERHAGE HOLDING GMBH&CO.KG - VSE