Identification and Evolution Analysis of Research Hotspots on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Soil

• • Publication output on soil PFAS has followed a J-shaped growth curve since 1985, with a policy-driven surge post-2006; China's output and citations have risen consistently since 2010, with the Chinese Academy of Sciences as a core contributor. • • Keyword co-occurrence analysis of 1,459 documents delineates four research clusters: transport/transformation, bioaccumulation/toxicity, novel PFAS fate/risk, and remediation; trend factor (T) calculations over 2015–2019 vs. 2020–2024 highlight a shift toward bioremediation and plant-mediated mechanisms. • • The study identifies critical knowledge gaps, including the lack of multi-media coupled models (atmosphere-soil-groundwater) and the need for machine learning to predict PFAS migration and leaching risks, as well as the integration of satellite and sensor data for early warning systems. • • Future remediation R&D must overcome the long-term stability and cost barriers of biochar-based adsorbents; strategies include hierarchical pore structure control and biochar-nanomaterial composites, alongside thermal treatment for source control of PFAS-containing products.