OUR APPROACH & DELIVERABLES:
The study provided insights into the types and quantities of PFAS used in the refining sector, associated potential atmospheric emissions, available measurement techniques, and suitable dispersion modelling approaches for impact assessments.
The study identified multiple use categories of PFAS in the sector, predominantly involving fluoropolymers. These are generally considered "polymers of low concern" due to their stability (they do not biodegrade in the environment), low solubility, and low bioaccumulation potential.
The review also identified a significant data gap regarding quantified emissions of PFAS from specific refinery processes, particularly non-polymeric PFAS in hydrocarbon processing and refining, though the conclusion is reached that use and emissions of non-polymeric PFAS from the refining sector would be insignificant in comparison to other sectors.. There is also a data gap relating to identified potential release mechanisms in the sector, particularly for quantitative data.
OTM 45 and 50 are identified and evaluated as documented methodologies for PFAS monitoring, and several emerging techniques are also reviewed.
Three classes of dispersion models are reviewed for their relevance to PFAS emissions to air in the refining sector.
Extensive literature review of academic, industry, and grey literature for PFAS use and emissions as well as review of quantitative data where available.
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