“Study Shows PFAS Chemicals Could Linger in North Carolina Groundwater for Over 40 Years”

The study conducted by North Carolina State University revealed that PFAS contamination in groundwater in Cumberland and Bladen counties could persist for over 40 years. The researchers focused on two watersheds near the Fayetteville Works fluorochemical plant in Bladen County, where significant levels of PFAS were detected.

David Genereux, the lead researcher and professor at NC State, highlighted the impact of PFAS contamination on over 7,000 private wells in the area, as well as the downstream users of the Cape Fear River near Wilmington. The study utilized groundwater age-dating tracers, atmospheric contamination data, and groundwater flow rates to model past and future PFAS concentrations in tributary streams.

The results showed that PFAS compounds such as HFPO−DA and PMPA were present in groundwater up to 43 years old, with concentrations exceeding the EPA’s maximum contaminant level for public drinking water. The researchers estimated that it could take several decades for the contaminated groundwater to flush out, especially considering the potential diffusion of PFAS into low-permeability zones.

Despite reduced air emissions of PFAS in recent years, the researchers warned that atmospheric deposition could continue to contribute to groundwater contamination. Genereux emphasized that even in the best-case scenario, PFAS from past emissions could persist in groundwater for another 40 years.

The study underscores the long-term nature of the PFAS contamination problem and the need for ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts. Future research will focus on predicting PFAS levels in individual drinking water wells and assessing potential health impacts associated with past exposure to PFAS.