Insights into the fate of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in drinking water based on bibliometric analysis: research hot spots, challenges, and trends

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are highly persistent and widely distributed PFASs contaminants that pose a serious threat to drinking water quality. However, few bibliometric studies have analyzed the research trends and challenges of PFASs. Utilizing CiteSpace and VOSviewer, this study analyzed 1,281 publications indexed in the Web of Science database spanning 2003 to 2023. The results revealed consistent growth in publication and citation counts, with major contributions from the United States, China, and Sweden. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the occurrence and behavior of PFASs in drinking water. Surface runoff, soil leaching, and atmospheric deposition jointly control PFASs delivery to water supplies, while legacy analytical protocols (liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry) are gradually complemented by portable high-selectivity sensors. Current countermeasures, including activated carbon, ion-exchange resins, membrane separation, and emerging electro-/photochemical oxidation, display clear cost-performance tradeoffs. Persistent challenges remain in monitoring short-chain and novel ether PFASs, managing concentrated residuals, and harmonizing regulatory thresholds. This bibliometric synthesis provides evidence for prioritizing research and policy actions that can accelerate the transition to PFASs-free drinking water.