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

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

PFAS in Water Systems: Sources, Challenges and Emerging Removal Technologies

Abstract Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have emerged as one of the most critical classes of persistent organic contaminants threatening global water resources. Due to their exceptional chemical stability, resistance to degradation, and widespread industrial applications, PFAS are increasingly detected in groundwater, surface water, wastewater, and even drinking water supplies. This article reviews the origin and environmental pathways of PFAS contamination, with a particular focus on aquatic systems. It also examines the principal analytical techniques currently used for PFAS detection and quantification in water matrices, including LC-MS/MS and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Furthermore, the study critically analyzes conventional and advanced PFAS … Continue reading