Emerging contaminants update, with a focus on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and 1,4-Dioxane

Emerging contaminants (ECs) are compounds with a real or perceived threat to human health and the environment but that lack a promulgated health standard or have evolving standards. Discovery of ECs at established remediation sites can have a profound impact on the schedule, cost, and effectiveness of remediation programs. Familiarity with the process by which chemicals become regulated compounds is an important step in understanding and managing emerging contaminants. (author)