Effect of hydrochemical conditions on transport of HFPO-DA in saturated quartz sand and limestone porous media
摘要
Hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA, tradename Gen-X) is used as a substitute to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Its widespread presence in the environment and potential health risks on humans. Nevertheless, the research on transport of HFPO-DA in saturated porous media remains limited. This study investigates the effects of hydrochemical conditions on the transport behavior of HFPO-DA and PFOA in quartz sand and limestone porous media, such as ionic type (Na+, Ca2+), ionic strength (1 mM, 10 mM, 50 mM) and initial solution pH (pH = 4, 7, 10). Findings indicate that both HFPO-DA and PFOA have high mobility in saturated media. The transport of HFPO-DA through quartz sand and limestone porous media is not notably influenced by different ionic types and strengths, with recoveries all over 98.94% and Rf all below 1.02. Similarly, PFOA showed high mobility under different ionic conditions, with recoveries exceeding 101.68% and Rf less than 1.02.The influence of initial pH on the transport of HFPO-DA showed that HFPO-DA is pH-sensitive in quartz sand, with retention enhanced and significant trailing of the BTC at pH = 4; however, the pH-buffering capacity of limestone media reduced the impact of pH on HFPO-DA transportation. Compared with PFOA, HFPO-DA transported faster at pH = 4 with an Rf value of 0.97, lower than that of PFOA at 1.21, due to its smaller molecular weight and shorter carbon chain. Overall, the research reveals the potent mobility of HFPO-DA and PFOA in the environment, highlighting their groundwater pollution potential and environmental risks.