Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used for decades.  PFAS are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because their strong carbon-fluorine bonds prevent them from breaking down in the environment.  The presence of PFAS in the water supply is cause for concern due to both environmental and health-related issues.  This course summarizes PFAS detection and removal methods that are currently used to reduce PFAS levels in water.  Complexities and potential improvements to these methods are also discussed.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

Define what PFAS are

Explain where PFAS come from

List the benefits of PFAS

Provide examples of where PFAS are used

Explain why PFAS are a threat

Describe how humans are exposed to PFAS

List potential health effects of PFAS

Describe sources of PFAS contamination in the environment

Discuss how PFAS are detected in the environment

Explain how PFAS are removed from drinking water

List key PFAS removal technologies

Discuss trends in federal and state regulations associated with PFAS