PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are persistent contaminants found in groundwater and industrial wastewater; they are difficult to break down and harmful to human health. To remove these contaminants, advanced technologies based on adsorption using activated carbon and selective resins are employed, in configurations optimised to achieve treatment levels down to the ppt (parts per trillion) range.

PFAS Removal Technologies

1. Activated carbon + single stage of selective resins (removal down to ppb levels)

• Granular activated carbon (GAC): adsorbs most long-chain PFAS (such as PFOS and PFOA), thereby reducing their concentration.
• Single-stage selective resin filtration: removes residual PFAS, including short-chain PFAS, reducing concentrations to parts-per-billion (ppb) levels.
• Typical application: wastewater treatment to ensure compliance with legal limits.

2. Activated carbon + two-stage series with special resins (removal down to parts per trillion)

• First stage: Activated carbon: provides effective pre-filtration, extending the service life of the resins.
• Second Stage: Advanced selective resins: these capture even the most difficult-to-remove PFAS, reducing concentrations to parts-per-trillion (ppt) levels.
• Typical application: treatment of groundwater to produce water that is safe for human consumption or to meet very strict environmental standards.

Benefits of the Process

• High removal efficiency: capable of achieving levels below 10 ppt, thereby complying with the most stringent regulations.
• Operational flexibility: a configuration that can be adapted to suit the quality of the incoming water and the treatment objectives.
• Optimised service life of filter media: activated carbon extends the life of the resins, reducing replacement and maintenance costs.
• Scalable solution: it can be implemented on a small or large scale for the treatment of industrial, drinking or waste water.

Thanks to this combined strategy, it is possible to produce treated water that is safe and compliant with environmental regulations, whilst minimising the impact of PFAS on the environment and public health.