Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in water-based environments: A systematic review of treatment technologies and research trends (2017–2024)

Emerging pollutants (EPs), a diverse group of organic contaminants including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial chemicals such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), pose a significant threat to global water quality, human health, and ecological systems. These persistent and often unregulated compounds necessitate effective removal strategies. To better understand the range of available PFAS treatment methods in water and their reported efficiency, a literature-based systematic review was conducted in multiple phases, ensuring a thorough and structured analysis. In the first phase, a comprehensive search of Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) was performed, employing specific keywords to identify the relevant research. As this study prioritized experimental research on PFAS degradation and removal, the selection process involved excluding duplicates, non-English publications, modeling studies, book chapters, PFAS monitoring and characterization studies, and the review articles. After a thorough screening, the technical papers specifically investigating the treatment methods were selected for an in-depth analysis, focusing on the several parameters, including the medium type, target PFAS, treatment type, treatment method and the treatment efficacy. This review critically synthesizes key information on effective treatment technologies and experimental procedures, presenting a year-wise analysis of advancements and trends. Therefore, the findings presented herein provide a comprehensive overview of the progress in PFAS degradation technologies, highlighting key advancements, challenges, and research gaps. Thus, this review serves as a valuable resource to guide future research and the development of more efficient and sustainable PFAS treatment strategies.