The Pros And Cons Of Pilot Testing For PFAS Removal

By Jinlin Tong, Sentinel Water Solutions

PFAS treatment presents a complex challenge because every source water matrix, regulatory landscape, and facility footprint varies significantly. While standard rental pilot skids are often pushed as a quick fix, fixed equipment geometries can skew critical empty bed contact time (EBCT) calculations and lead to costly, irreversible design errors at full scale. Implementing a rigorously configured pilot program is essential for comparing media options, as operations and maintenance costs driven by media replacement typically consume 15% to 20% of the initial capital outlay over time. Beyond validating chemical performance and vessel sizing, these small-scale systems help utilities navigate complex state permitting mandates and demonstrate that new media will not disrupt downstream secondary treatment processes. Ultimately, a tailored pilot test transforms unpredictable variables into accurate operational data, establishing a reliable foundation for long-term treatment success. Read the full article to learn more.