(562r) Synthesis of Fluorinated Hydrocarbon Anion Exchange Resins for the Removal of Perfluorinated Chemicals

Perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) are anthropogenic industrial compounds used in many applications, including surface coatings, surfactants, and flame retardants. They are persistent and very stable in air, water, and soil environments. PFCs have been detected in water and soil samples all over the globe. They have been reported as bioaccumulative, with detectable concentrations in humans and in both aquatic and terrestrial animals. For reasons of their stability and bioaccumulative nature, efforts have been made to restrict their production and use worldwide. We will present the synthesis and characterization of a novel fluorinated anion exchange sorbent for removal of perfluoroalkyl compounds including PFOA and PFOS from drinking water. Our idea improves upon adsorption technologies such as activated carbon and anion exchange resins, which are not specific for perfluoroalkyl compounds. While it has been demonstrated that these adsorption materials are effective in removing perfluoroalky compounds (PFCs), they are prone to reduced effectiveness in the presence of co-existing organic matter in water. Organic compounds can outcompete PFCs for binding sites reducing effectiveness. We will present details of the synthesis of a mixed-mode fluorinated polymer-anion exchange resin. The surface chemistry, morphology and surface area of the resins along with adsorption equilibrium and kinetic studies in both the batch and column modes will be described.