Department of Chemistry Sabbatical Seminar with Dr. Ryan Casey
Speaker: Dr. Ryan Casey, Department of Chemistry, TU
Title: Developing a PFAS Analysis Capability at TU
Date: Thursday, February 13
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: SC 4230
Abstract:
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are commonly called “forever chemicals” due to their ability to resist degradation in the environment and in organisms (including humans). In April 2024, the USEPA set enforceable drinking water criteria for several PFAS compounds at 4 ng/L. This is the lowest limit set for any contaminant in drinking water. PFAS compounds are used in a multitude of consumer products, including nonstick surfaces, clothing, cosmetics and plastics. Quantifying PFAS is therefore complicated by the need for extremely low limits of detection and an ever-present risk of contamination, even from dedicated laboratory materials and high purity chemicals. This talk will detail the obstacles a laboratory has to overcome to successfully measure PFAS and will describe our initial analyses to evaluate whether Brood X periodical cicadas (Magicicada spp.) serve as a source of PFAS to the terrestrial environment.
Categorised in: General
This post was written by Charles, Amanda G.