Tag Archives: Groundwater Contamination

Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA): An Emerging Threat to Water Resources and Drinking Water Safety

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Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) has emerged as one of the most widespread and persistent fluorinated contaminants detected in the environment. As an ultra-short-chain member of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family, TFA exhibits exceptional water solubility, high mobility, and extreme environmental persistence. Unlike legacy PFAS such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), TFA is primarily generated through the degradation of fluorinated refrigerants, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals. Recent monitoring studies have revealed its increasing occurrence in rainwater, groundwater, surface waters, drinking water, food products, and even human serum. This review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding TFA sources, … Continue reading →

Fracking and the Need for Risk Analysis

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Recent events in the Europe and the United States have propelled fracking up the public and political agenda. Is the case for drilling full of holes? Despite apparent economic benefits, fracking has got entangled in a good deal of controversies with some countries outrightly banning or suspending it. Public health concerns, environmental issues, geo-mechanical risks, groundwater contamination, air pollution and waste management are some of the issues are coming under increasing public scrutiny. No Sense of Well-being The oil and gas industry does not inspire huge public confidence, as attention focuses on major incidents like the Deepwater Horizon blowout, which have cost lives, … Continue reading →