Direct measurement of PFAS levels in surface water using an engineered biosensor

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large set of emerging contaminants pervasive in the environment due to amphiphilic properties and strong carbon-fluorine bonds resistant to biodegradation. With an ever-increasing prevalence, the need for precise detection of these chemicals at low levels in drinking water is clear. However, ground and surface water as well as soil and other biosolids have become reservoirs for PFAS at extremely high levels. In fact, PFAS concentrations at part per billion and part per million levels are found in environmental samples taken near high contamination sites including industrial facilities and military bases. In this work, we demonstrate the application of a biosensor based on human liver fatty acid binding protein to detect perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in surface water samples taken near Loring Airforce Base. We show this sensor can detect the high levels of PFOA found in the samples quickly and easily without the use of extensive sample pre-treatment or analytical methods. Therefore, we hope the future of this technology will better assess PFAS detection needs for a multitude of end point users.