Development of Innovative Broad-Spectrum Analysis Methods for PFAS

This SBIR addresses EPA’s need for improved sampling and analysis technologies to detect Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). PFAS are used in firefighting sprays, at airports, and for wild fires, and have been used in textile treatments (e.g., it is a component in Scotchgard). It is estimated that 65 million Americans are at risk of PFAS exposure in their drinking water. Seacoast proposes a product to reduce cost per-sample analysis by implementing a disposable cartridge and optical detection. The cartridge will contain the necessary chemicals to convert PFAS in a water sample to optically active species detected using portable spectrophotometry. The cartridges are one-time-use plastic (injection molded) components containing reagent pouches, microfluidic channels, and a reaction chamber. The instrument will have an automated test procedure that coordinates reagent injection and analysis using UV light activated absorbance/fluorescence allows detection and quantification. This system combines inexpensive detectors, specialized chemistry, and microfluidics to simplify PFAS analysis, reduce cost-per-sample, and allow portability to remediation field-sites. Cartridges will cost under $100 per test, and high throughput, allows lower cost per sample than traditional analysis. Annual revenues of $6M are projected if the product is used for just 1% of the US public drinking water systems.