Grantee Research Project Results
Development of Innovative Broad-Spectrum Analysis Methods for PFAS
EPA Contract Number: 68HE0D18C0029Title: Development of Innovative Broad-Spectrum Analysis Methods for PFAS
Investigators: Jackson, Randy E
Small Business: Seacoast Science, Inc.
EPA Contact: Richards, April
Phase: I
Project Period: October 1, 2018 through March 31, 2019
Project Amount: $100,000
RFA: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - Phase I (2018) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) , SBIR - Land Revitalization
Description:
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.
Supplemental Keywords:
remediation, analysis, PFASProgress and Final Reports:
SBIR Phase II:
Development of Innovative Broad-Spectrum Analysis Methods for PFAS | Final ReportThe perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.