The toxic “forever chemicals” per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are linked with a wide range of health problems from cancer to infertility, have found their way into our drinking water. Thousands of PFAS-contaminated water sources have been identified across all 50 states. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is working to establish maximum acceptable levels for PFAS in drinking water. Meanwhile, PFAS remediation is possible with the right technologies and system design. In some cases, a custom temporary solution is sufficient.

What are PFAS chemicals?

PFAS are man-made chemicals. Because they resist heat, oil grease, and water, they are found in countless products, from non-stick cookware and fast-food packaging to weather-resistant and stain-resistant clothing and fire-fighting foam. Among the most widespread of all so-called forever chemicals, they are nearly indestructible.

The EPA recently announced a proposal to designate two of the most common PFAS as hazardous substances. Such a designation would require companies to report PFAS releases of a certain amount and give the federal government more power to make polluters clean up PFAS water contamination.

How to remove PFAS from water: Temporary PFAS remediation systems

Water and wastewater treatment plants have a major challenge on their hands when it comes to filtering PFAS from water, but other organizations are also finding themselves having to deal with PFAS removal, including many that lack water treatment expertise.

In some situations, a permanent treatment installation isn’t necessary. For example, if underground infrastructure construction or repairs require dewatering and the water contains PFAS (or other contaminants), a temporary water treatment solution can help project owners meet regulatory requirements.

One key to removing PFAS is filtering out other contaminants first so as not to use up the physical media filters needed to remove the “forever chemicals.” High levels of natural organic carbon or total suspended solids, for instance, may be removed with a sand filter, clarifier or other treatment. Then a dedicated media filter such as an ion exchange resin filter can be used to filter the PFAS. This approach not only removes more contaminants but also minimizes filter changeouts and cuts costs.

What to look for in a temporary PFAS treatment solution

A wide range of temporary PFAS treatment solutions exist. To help ensure a successful outcome, look for a solution that:

• Is easy to use. Ease of use is especially important for customers who aren’t experts in water treatment.
• Is customizable. The right PFAS removal solution for each application will be different depending on the water chemistry, other contaminants in the water, local or state regulations and other factors.
• Is designed by experts. PFAS remediation experts are few and far between. Seek out a solution designed by a company that understands the complexities and challenges of removing PFAS.
• Includes technical support. The vendor who designed the solution be able to provide technical support if a problem arises.
• Is readily available. Considering today’s supply chain problems, availability is a real concern. To avoid costly project delays, ask your vendor whether the equipment needed for the solution is available now.

Contact the United Rentals Fluid Solutions group for all your water filtration needs.