Perfluorinated Chemicals Removal from Potable and Wastewater
Recent research carried out primarily in Germany and the UK has identified elevated concentrations of a range of perfluorinated chemicals in surface and groundwaters.
The most common residues are perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These chemicals are accumulating in the environment and have been found in a wide range of wildlife, as well as in humans.
Perfluorinated chemicals are extremely resistant to degradation and environmental breakdown, and repel both water and oil. They are used in various applications including:
- surfactant in fire-fighting foam;
- surfactant for alkaline cleaners;
- emulsifier in floor polish;
- mist suppressant for metal plating baths;
- surfactant for etching acids for circuit boards;
- pesticide active ingredient for ant bait traps;
- water/solvent repellence for leather/paper;
- antistatic agent in photographic paper;
- pesticide active ingredient;
- waterproofing casts/wound dressings;
- the manufacture of non-stick pans,
- stain/water repellents for clothing and furniture to floor waxes and paper coatings.
- Soil/water repellence for: - carpet; fabric/upholstery; apparel; leather; metal/glass.
- Oil/water repellence for: - plates; food containers; bags; wraps; folding cartons containers; carbonless forms; masking papers.
Research is continuing into the toxicity of these compounds and, in light of the Buncefield incident, a drinking water limit for perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) of 3µg/l has been established in the UK.
In Germany there is currently a target of 0.1µg/l for perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in drinking water. This is not yet a legal requirement, however, local authorites can, at their discretion, force sites to close
Activated carbons produced and supplied by Chemviron Carbon have been used successfully to treat PFOS and PFA at a number of municipal drinking water treatment sites. Additionally, in combination with our Mobile Adsorption service Chemviron have also successfully treated waste water and historically contaminated groundwaters.
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