PFAScan · Continuous Monitoring of PFAS via Microfluidic Graphene Field Effect Transistors

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are among the most persistent and hazardous pollutants known, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are among the most persistent and hazardous pollutants known, and they represent a long-term threat to public health and ecosystems. Due to their widespread use and resistance to degradation, PFAS are routinely detected in drinking water. Consequently, biomonitoring studies across multiple continents have consistently found measurable levels of PFAS in the blood of the general population. Given that universal PFAS exposure primarily occurs through drinking water and considering the significant limitations of current validated detection methods such as analysis time (hours), cost (350€ per sample), and scalability (non-portable), there is an urgent need for novel and more efficient detection strategies. PFAScan seeks to overcome the limitations of the current validated detection methods through the development of a novel cost-effective technology for continuous monitoring of PFAS in drinking water to transform environmental monitoring and safety in water. Graphene Field Effect Transistors (GFETs) will be functionalised through electrochemical approach using arene diazonium salts containing perfluoroalkyl and amine groups. This will create fluorous matrices enabling the detection of PFAS with enhanced selectivity (through fluorophilic interactions) and sensitivity (through electrostatic interactions). This covalent functionalisation will create environmental stability which combined with the integration of microfluidic channels will allow for the continuous monitoring of water systems (tap and well water). The performance of the device will be study for six highly toxic PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, PFBS, PFBA, PHFxS and GenX). PFAScan could be used for early detection and real-time alerts to take immediate actions, ensuring no contaminated-water source goes overlooked due to the lack of portability of the current detection methods.