Degradation of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Through Advanced Oxidation Processes

Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) have emerged as major persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in aquatic systems, yet cost-effective technologies for treating PFAS in contaminated waters are lacking, and our knowledge on the degradation mechanisms remains limited. The objectives of this chapter are to summarize and discuss some of the latest developments in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), including photocatalysis, electrochemical oxidation, photoelectrochemical oxidation, plasma, ozonation and sonochemical processes. This chapter also provides a thorough overview of activated persulfate systems for degradation of PFAS, and introduces a newly developed concentrate-and-destroy strategy for enhanced destruction of low concentrations of PFAS in water. The focus is placed on process effectiveness, the effects of operating conditions, and reaction mechanisms and pathways. The information may serve as a guide for researchers and practitioners to understand the latest developments in AOP-based technologies and the potential of adsorptive photocatalysts for developing more cost-effective technologies for treating PFAS in water.