Investigation into Radiation Effects on Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Used in Nuclear Industry

Rapid technological development, while transformative for our lives, has also led to numerous environmental problems. A case in point is a widespread use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in everyday products like cookware, electronics and textiles. A few specific PFAS have been linked to serious health issues, including cancer and

immune system disorders. The European Chemical Agency (ECHA) has proposed a restriction on the manufacture and use of PFAS. This initiative might unfavourably affect the UK nuclear industry (amongst others), which uses many fluoropolymers. This project will investigate common fluoropolymers used at UK nuclear sites in transport flasks and

gloveboxes, isotope enrichment, and in PPE. This PhD will deliver an improved understanding of the radiation/thermal tolerance of selected fluoropolymers, and whether radiolysis can give rise to hazardous forms of PFAS under industry-relevant scenarios. These new fundamental data will underpin a safe use of the fluoropolymers across the entire NDA estate.

Key questions to be addressed in this project are: Radiation and thermal tolerance of selected fluoropolymers, including the effects of formulation changes; Evaluating possibility of radiolytic production of hazardous PFAS forms; Mechanical properties: flexibility, elongation at break, strength, toughness, compression set;

Operational aspects: ageing & shelf life; Waste management: interaction of irradiated PFAS and their degradation products with container, gas production, compatibility with wasteforms, leaching of water-soluble products.