PFAS pattern / contamination of fish with perfluorinated compounds

Lead Institute FI Institute of Fisheries Ecology

Contamination of fish with perfluorinated compounds in the river and sea

How high are the concentrations of PFAS in fish and what do they mean for fish and the environment?

Background and Objective

Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of anthropogenic chemicals that are widely used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications due to their unique physicochemical properties such as water, grease and soil repellency. These substances are extremely persistent, sometimes bioaccumulative and potentially toxic, which can lead to environmental and health problems. The investigation of PFAS concentrations in marine and limnic organisms is therefore of great importance to understand the extent of environmental pollution and to take measures to protect ecosystems.

The overall objective of the project is to improve the data available for the assessment of good environmental status in accordance with the MSFD.

Approach

This research project focuses on analysing PFAS in fish originating from different geographical regions to draw a comprehensive picture of PFAS pollution and to identify possible differences in contamination patterns and sources. Fish are a particularly relevant sample matrix as they play an important role in aquatic food webs and can accumulate PFAS both through direct ingestion from the water and through their diet.

Particular attention will be paid to the patterns of the various PFAS compounds in order to identify possible sources and transport pathways. The PFAS profiles of fish from different origins are expected to differ due to different PFAS sources.

This study contributes to closing the knowledge gaps regarding the distribution and dynamics of PFAS in aquatic ecosystems and provides valuable data for the management and regulation of these persistent pollutants. In addition, by analysing the exposure of fish, which play an important role in marine food chains, a better understanding of the potential risks to human health and the environment will be gained. The knowledge gained can serve as a basis for future research and measures to reduce PFAS pollution in the environment

Data and Methods

PFAS concentrations are analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), a method that is characterised by high sensitivity and specificity and enables the reliable identification and quantification of PFAS in complex matrices. This analytical technique allows the detection and quantification of a wide range of PFAS compounds, including long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs), perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs) and newer substitutes such as fluorinated ethers.