What We Treat
PFAS
PFAS Overview
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances, sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals”due to their environmental persistance, are a category of over 14,000 of man-made chemicals (including PFOS, PFOA, and GenX) with unique water and oil repellant properties. PFAS are most commonly found in nonstick products, aqueous film forming foams, packaging, and dozens of other sources. PFAS are persistent and accumulative in the environment, and many water authorities have made their treatment, removal, and destruction a top priority due to the considerable bioaccumulation and health impacts. Although the US EPA recently elevated the two most widely known PFAS compounds for domestic enforcement, the eight carbon compounds PFOA and PFOS, industries have generally adopted use of the even more concerning PFAS to avoid regulatory and consumer scrutiny. However, these substitute PFAS compounds are often shorter in carbon chain length and more hydrophilic, endowing these PFAS compounds with even greater ability to bypass conventional treatment methods.
How We Treat for PFAS
While there are thousands of different PFAS compounds, many share similar properties and can be similarly seperated from water/wastewater. Selection of the preferred treatment option often depends on the site specific PFAS profile, influent loading level, desired effluent targets, and the waste disposal options for the liquid and/or solid wastes generated during treatment.
Important Factors We Consider in System Design:
- Extent of pre-treatment required prior to PFAS seperation
- Client preference for solid and/or liquid waste streams
- Redundancy requirements
- Operating costs of potential alternatives
- Destruction options for concentrated waste streams
How We Treat for PFAS
While there are thousands of different PFAS compounds, many share similar properties and can be similarly targeted. Selection of the preferred treatment option often depends on the influent loading level, the desired effluent target, and the waste disposal options for the liquid or solid wastes generated in the removal process.
Important Factors We Consider in System Design:
- Level of pre-treatment required prior to PFAS removal steps
- Client preference for solid or liquid waste streams
- Redundancy requirements
- Operating costs of candidate alternatives
- Destruction plan for waste streams
