R-22-23-Aeppli Composition and transport of forever chemicals (PFAS) in Maine’s estuaries

Christoph Aeppli
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences

Perfluoroalkyl substances, otherwise known as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” are becoming more prevalent in Maine’s land and water. This project includes field studies to measure levels of PFAS in coastal marine ecosystems and investigate how those chemicals make their way into estuaries. In a laboratory setting, the researchers will gain a better understanding of how PFAS may affect shellfish by measuring how much of the chemicals accumulate in blue mussels and determining how long they stay in the tissue after exposure. 

Two-year project, 2022-2024
Sea Grant funds: $123,428