PFAS in Water: A Growing Challenge Demanding Innovative Solutions

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent a growing threat to water quality. Commonly referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are highly persistent in the environment and resistant to conventional treatment processes. Developed as early as the 1940s and 1950s, these synthetic compounds are found in a wide variety of products—from food packaging and non-stick cookware to textiles, cosmetics, and more. Their resistance to heat, water, grease, and stains makes them durable, but also highly problematic for the environment, water resources, and human health. Studies have linked prolonged PFAS exposure to certain types of cancer and other serious health issues.

Regulatory agencies have responded by setting stringent limits for PFAS in drinking water—8 parts per trillion (ppt) for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and 16 ppt for perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). However, many water sources still exceed these limits, highlighting the urgent need for more advanced and effective treatment technologies.

Promising results have been seen with treatment methods like activated carbon adsorption, selective ion exchange, and reverse osmosis (RO). Recently, researchers have turned their attention to Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs), which have shown encouraging results—especially when integrated with existing technologies.

At Ecosign, we offer an exclusive AOP-based technology known as the Multioxidative System, designed to address persistent organic pollutants like PFAS.

Visit our website or contact our specialists to learn more!

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References:

Shapira, N., & Morello-Frosch, R. (2024). Regrettable substitution of PFAS in consumer products: A call for improved chemical alternatives assessment. Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology.

https://lnkd.in/du6BwbhJ

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2024, April 10). EPA announces it will keep maximum contaminant levels for PFOA, PFOS.