PFAS Treatment Technologies For Water Utilities And PFAS-Contaminated Sites

PFAS are persistent contaminants, often called "forever chemicals," which pose significant health and environmental risks due to their widespread use and resistance to natural degradation. With governments establishing increasingly strict regulations, water utilities worldwide must prioritize effective treatment to protect communities and ensure compliance. Traditional water treatment methods are ineffective against PFAS, necessitating the adoption of advanced technologies.

The range of treatment options includes granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration, which adsorbs the chemicals; ion exchange resins, which swap harmful ions for harmless ones; and reverse osmosis, a highly effective high-pressure membrane process. To implement a successful strategy, utilities should begin by thoroughly assessing their water sources to identify the specific types and concentrations of PFAS present. Following assessment, selecting the optimal, tested technology—potentially through pilot studies—is crucial for meeting upcoming regulatory deadlines. Learn how to implement proven strategies to manage this critical water quality challenge.