PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are synthetic chemicals valued for their exceptional water and heat resistance, leading to widespread use in industries such as semiconductors, firefighting foams, coatings, and a variety of consumer products. However, due to their environmental persistence, low sorption to soils, and high mobility, PFAS can easily contaminate groundwater. Once ingested, they can bioaccumulate in the human body, posing risks such as carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, and endocrine disruption. In response to these concerns, regulatory agencies in the US, EU, Australia have tightened standards and enhanced monitoring of PFAS in drinking water and groundwater. Consequently, a range of groundwater remediation technologies has been developed, including granular activated carbon, ion exchange resins, high-pressure membranes, foam fractionation, and colloidal activated carbon. Among these, activated carbon-based methods are widely studied for their cost-effectiveness and broad applicability, utilizing hydrophobic and electrostatic adsorption mechanisms. Given the environmental persistence and health risks associated with PFAS, there is a growing need to align domestic strategies with international regulatory trends. This paper provides foundational data on PFAS properties, sources, regulations, and groundwater treatment technologies.

Keywords: PFAS, Groundwater, Water regulation, PFAS removal, Granular activated carbon