Project Summary/Abstract: 2Witech Solutions LLC proposes a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research project to develop a portable electrochemical sensing device for quick field screening of trace PFAS in non-potable waters (groundwater, surface water, and wastewater) by combining its recent achievement in molecular- imprinting technology and electrochemical sensor development. The overall objective of the Phase I effort is to demonstrate a dynamic range up to 200ppt levels of perfluorinated chemicals in water with detection limit of 1ppt, response time within minutes and selectivity of PFAS against interfering ions and organics as well as recoverability for quick determination. The developed sensor will be examined for its applicability in real contaminated ground water samples as well. The research plan is designed to identify the methods and materials required to achieve the project's stated objective. This information will be used to optimize sensor performance and serve as the basis for future development of perfluorinated chemical sensors. For technology commercialization, 2Witech will collaborate with Water Analytics, Inc. (Andover MA, www.wateranalytics.net), which is a leading producer of sensing devices for wastewater treatment. Water Analytics' engineering capability and sales channels can be used for product prototyping and sales of the proposed sensor.

Project Narrative (relevance to public health): The proposed differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) based sensor will provide a fast and low cost alternative to current laboratory analytical approaches for field screening of per- polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in non-potable waters (groundwater, surface water, and wastewater). PFAS is an emerging category of contaminants identified by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to investigate the exposures and associated health outcomes.