We’re talking about a chemical that’s out there. Not just on one farm in West Virginia, not even just in the public water of an entire community there, but it’s now in water all over the country, all over the planet, in the blood of virtually every living thing.
– Robert Bilott
Polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl are a group of man-made chemicals that include PFOS and PFAS. Although no longer manufactured in the USA, production of the chemicals started in the 1940’s. PFAS has been used by numerous industries across the globe and subsequentially contaminated critical water supplies. These chemicals are persistent and do not break down; meaning they accumulate in living species over time.
Exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health effects. Studies have indicated that PFAS can cause liver and kidney, reproductive and developmental, and immunological effects in animals. Results from human studies suggest PFAS increase cholesterol levels among exposed populations and limited finding related to cancer, infant birth weight, and effects on the immune system.
TREATING PFAS IN DRINKING WATER
Several methods for the removal and degradation of PFAS from drinking water have been identified as effective depending on the water chemistries. These methods/technologies include the following:
- Granular/Powdered Activated Carbon (GAC) – PFAS chemicals stick to activated carbon as water passes through
- Ion Exchange Resins: Small resin beads constructed of hydrocarbons attract PFAS chemicals acting like a “magnet” as water passes through.
THE PUREFLOW SOLUTION
Understanding that there is no “silver bullet” in water treatment, Pureflow offers granular activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange media solutions for successful removal of PFAS from water supplies. Onsite pilot studies by Pureflow and site specific requirements can determine the most efficient and effective treatment method.
