Background & Description: The presence of emerging contaminants such as Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), microplastics, pharmaceutical residues, and other synthetic pollutants in water sources is becoming an increasing concern worldwide. These contaminants may pose risks to human health and aquatic ecosystems even at very low concentrations. Conventional detection methods require sophisticated laboratory infrastructure, trained personnel,and expensive analytical instruments, limiting the frequency and scale of monitoring. There is a need for innovative, affordable, and field-deployable technologies that can enable rapid screening and monitoring of emerging contaminants in drinking water sources and water supply systems. Such solutions can be suitable for use by field functionaries, laboratories, and local communities to support early identification of contamination and informed decision-making. The proposed solution should focus on: Rapid and reliable detection of PFAS, microplastics, and other emerging contaminants. Easy-to-use field-testing methodologies with minimal technical expertise. Cost-effective and portable testing systems suitable for rural settings. Digital recording and reporting of test results for monitoring and surveillance. Scalability for large-scale deployment across water supply systems.
Expected Outcomes
1. Development of portable and user-friendly field test kits for screening emerging contaminants such as PFAS and microplastic in drinking water to enhanced surveillance of drinking water quality and improved public health protection. 2. Rapid identification of contamination events, enabling timely corrective actions. 3. Digital integration of test results for data-driven monitoring and decision-making.