2021: PFASeOut (completed)

Using synthetic biology to develop a PFAS detection device that can efficiently detect these compounds if a skier has been using ski wax containing PFAS.

Topic

PFAS is a collection of per- and polyfluoroakyl compounds that are water repellent, which in ski waxes gives the skis better gliding properties. The International ski federation (FIS) has decided to ban the use of perfluorinated compounds in ski wax in skiing competitions due to the toxic effect it has on the environment and the health of people working with the compounds. For this ban to be effective and fair for the athletes, there must be a way to detect these compounds on the skis during competitions. To tackle this problem, we are using synthetic biology to develop a PFAS detection device that can efficiently detect these compounds if a skier has been using ski wax containing PFAS. Our detection method is exploiting 2 different kinds of bacteria with specific genes that can recognize PFAS compounds and cleave the C-F bond. Detection will then take place either by the use of colour indication or electrode measurements.