Environmental contamination is usually made of complex mixtures of metals and organic compounds. Furthermore, these contaminants can interact with indigenous mineral phases and organic matter, a unique microbiome, and local vegetation. Rhizosphere horizons are particularly susceptive to heavy metals and organic contamination, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), due to their specific biogeochemical processes. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms controlling PFAS effect on plant growth and microbial community changes, in order to prevent or attenuate the effect of a changing environment and predict potential human exposure routes. The main objective of this project is to evaluate the distribution of PFAS in plants exposed to mixed contaminants, and their effect in the rhizosphere and in planta microbial community. Field measurements are combined with hydroponic experiments using the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana to assess the mechanisms of PFAS plant translocation and microbiome changes. This work focuses on the Ringwood/Ford Superfund, NJ site where lead, arsenic, chloroethane, benzene and 1,4-dioxane are the main contaminants of concern. However, PFAS have been measured in water, sediments and plants at different locations. PFNA, PFOA and PFOS have been analyzed in 8 locations, and elevated PFAS concentration was found in one location downstream a paint sludge disposal area (PFOS 445 ng/L, PFOA 23.78 ng/L, PFNA 25.69 ng/L). PFAS were also measured in sediments (PFOS 2.18 ng/g), rhizosphere (PFOS 2.45 ng/g) and plants (PFOS 0.811 ng/g roots). Hydroponic investigation on PFAS uptake by Arabidopsis thaliana shows PFOA preferred accumulation in roots, and a direct relationship with PFAS solution concentration. The changes in microbial communities are being evaluated using next-generation DNA Illumina sequencing. This work is expected to provide a holistic understanding of the fate and transformation of PFAS within the various environmental compartments, and it will inform future remediation strategies and exposure prevention alternatives.

PFAS distribution in contaminated soils and impact on rhizosphere and plant microbiota

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.