Rowan University’s Dongmei Dong, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy in the College of Science and Mathematics, has received a two-year, $200,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to develop a less expensive, portable and easier-to-use alternative for detecting even trace levels of PFAS.
Her lab’s interdisciplinary solution draws on chemistry, electrical engineering, and materials science, with the basic idea that PFAS in the water interact with the sensor material to produce an easily measurable output.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of highly stable artificial chemicals known for their resistance to natural degradation and continue to be detected in municipal water supplies. Due to the known health hazards of PFAS, accurately measuring their levels is crucial for maintaining public health and environmental safety. However, the traditional methods used are time-consuming, expensive and need special training.
Dong’s team is developing a new sensing system designed to quantify PFAS contamination in water through a simple, real-time electronic response. The device produces easy-to-interpret results, enabling rapid and reliable on-site monitoring.
The sensor material allows users to confirm results through multiple detection cues when it encounters PFAS. Its unique design, especially at extremely low concentrations, makes the sensor even more accurate. The lower cost, which is around $100 when compared to traditional methods that can run into the millions, is another key advantage.
Equally important, “The underlying physics in the detection of PFAS can be applied to monitor other chemicals with only minor modifications to the sensor,” said Dong.
Dong has ambitious goals for the research, which include using the project to nurture interest in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM). Both high school and college students contribute to the project, which will help expand outreach efforts such as Rowan’s STEAM Academy for high school students.
These programs encourage young scholars to explore interdisciplinary research in physics, materials and environmental science. Findings will be incorporated into physics courses to help students connect theory with real-world applications.
Additionally, communities in Southern New Jersey will benefit from this work through public engagement initiatives such as lab open houses and Earth Day events.
The overarching goals, in addition to the facilitation of convenient PFAS testing, are to raise awareness about the risks and to empower individuals with knowledge about water quality and chemical sensing.
