Occurrence of perfluoroalkyl sulfonates and carboxylates in German drinking water sources compared to other countries

Water Sci Technol. 2007;56(11):151-8. doi: 10.2166/wst.2007.803.

Abstract

Different homologues of C4 to C8 perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) and perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFASs) were detected in German surface waters, bank filtrates, artificially recharged groundwaters, and drinking waters. If no point sources are located nearby, the typically measured levels are in the low ng/L range. In the presence of point sources, such as a fluorochemical production site, a leaching agricultural fertilizer contaminated with PFCAs and PFASs, or drained PFC containing fire-fighting foams, much higher concentrations in the microg/L range occur. This situation is similar in Germany and other countries.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alkanesulfonates / analysis*
  • Carboxylic Acids / analysis*
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Fluorocarbons / analysis*
  • Fresh Water
  • Germany
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / analysis*
  • Water Supply

Substances

  • Alkanesulfonates
  • Carboxylic Acids
  • Fluorocarbons
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical