Fate and transport of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the vadose zone

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a heterogeneous group of persistent organic pollutants that have been detected in various environmental compartments around the globe. Emerging research has revealed preferential accumulation PFASs shallow soil horizons, particularly at sites impacted by firefighting activities, agricultural applications, atmospheric deposition. Once vadose zone, can sorb to soil, accumulate interfaces, become volatilized, be taken up biota, or leach underlying aquifer. At same time, polyfluorinated precursor species may transform into highly recalcitrant perfluoroalkyl acids, changing their chemical identity thus transport behavior along way. In this review, we critically discuss current state knowledge aim interconnect complex processes control fate zone. Furthermore, identify key challenges future needs. Consequently, review serve as an interdisciplinary guide for risk assessment management PFAS-contaminated sites.