PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals that have gained significant attention due to their widespread presence and potential environmental and health risks. These persistent compounds are known for their water and grease-resistant properties. They have been used in various consumer and industrial products, including non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, and stain-resistant fabrics. Concerns arise from their persistence in the environment, bioaccumulation in organisms, and potential health effects, which include links to various adverse health outcomes such as cancer, reproductive issues, and developmental problems. As a result, there is ongoing research and regulatory efforts to mitigate their impact and limit their use in various applications. At the Basuray lab, we work on a microfluidic electrochemical sensor (µFES) to detect PFAS in water samples. Using a Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) based transducer and packing material, we have developed a preliminary version of the ESSENCE platform for detecting PFOS. Current work is modifying the PFAS detection platform to improve reliability and sensitivity.
