The PFAS

What are PFAS? 

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large family of synthetic chemicals, called "eternal pollutants" because they resist degradation and accumulate in the environment and living organisms, providing non-stick, waterproofing and heat-resistant properties. 

Where do PFAS in water come from? 

Anthropogenic (non-natural) sources

PFAS are synthetic chemical compounds used as waterproofing or stain repellents in many consumer products such as: 

• Food packaging paper and cardboard;
• Fabrics, clothing, carpets, furniture; 
• Inside cans;
• Kitchen utensils and cosmetics. 

These compounds come from various human activities: 

• Domestic wastewater : discharge related to wear and tear of PFAS-treated objects. 
• Wastewater treatment plants : unable to completely remove PFAS, which return to the natural environment with treated discharges or sludge. 
• Landfills : Treated water from leachate may still contain PFAS. 
• Fire extinguishing foams: used in particular in airports and military sites. 

Some facts about PFAS 

• Health Canada's drinking water objective: 30 mg/L (for the sum of 25 PFAS measured using EPA Methods 533/537.1 for drinking water). 
• Some stricter criteria may be required depending on the context (decontamination, drinking water, industrial water) and the type of PFAS to be treated.
• PFAS are: 
• Very persistent in the environment; 
• Bioaccumulative;
• Associated with several toxic effects. 

Why control PFAS in water? 

• PFAS are extremely persistent, hence their nickname: "eternal pollutants". 
• They have documented toxic effects (chronic toxicity, bioaccumulation). 
• The exposure can come from:
• Food; 
• Drinking water; 
• Ambient air and dust. 
• Wastewater treatment plants do not dispose of them well, which contributes to their accumulation in waterways. 
• Some new-generation, shorter-chain PFAS are not yet regulated and are increasingly being detected. 

How to reduce PFAS concentration? 

Magnor has expertise in reducing PFAS concentration. Each situation is unique and has its own set of factors that influence the choice of solutions. Here are the technologies recognized for PFAS removal 

Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) 

• Effective for multiple PFAS; 
• Choice influenced by water quality and selectivity. 

Ion Exchange Resins (IX) 

• Very high capacity and selectivity with specialized PFAS resins; 
• Small footprint; 
• Possible regeneration or incineration. 

Reverse Osmosis (RO) 

• Effectively removes all PFAS; 
• Requires pre-treatment; 
• Concentrate management to be expected. 

How can Magnor help you? 

Depending on the situation, different solutions can be considered, and Magnor can help you make the right choice for PFAS removal. We are a manufacturer of PFAS removal solutions and these solutions have proven their effectiveness over time.