The complex ‘PFAS world’ - how recent discoveries and novel screening tools reinforce existing concerns

Abstract

In recent years, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS)-based studies have highlighted an increasingly complex ‘PFAS world’ and thousands of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are known today. Major new discoveries were made when previously unexplored PFAS sources or transformation pathways were investigated and when HRMS was combined with other analytical methods. Advances in analysis and data treatment have pointed to blind spots, and extensive suspect screening lists and data evaluation approaches have become available. Research has a vital role in making HRMS fit for broad application and, considering ongoing discussions supporting a grouping of PFAS, transitioning society towards a fundamentally new way of regulating, monitoring and managing PFAS.