In this episode Robin Deal, also known as the "Wastewater Whisperer," discusses one of the most pressing issues facing the finishing industry: PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Robin sheds light on why PFAS are so difficult to remove from wastewater and what manufacturers and municipalities are doing to address these “forever chemicals.”
From PFAS contamination in drinking water to the significant costs of wastewater treatment upgrades, this conversation explores the implications for metal finishers and beyond.
Key Takeaways:
• PFAS Complexity: Over 15,000 compounds fall under the PFAS category, found in everything from firefighting foam to metal finishing, textiles, and even food containers.
• EPA Regulations: The EPA has set stringent drinking water limits for key PFAS compounds, some as low as four parts per trillion, which are already impacting municipalities and manufacturers.
• Cost of Compliance: Upgrading wastewater treatment systems to remove PFAS could cost municipalities and small communities hundreds of millions of dollars, a burden often passed back to manufacturers.
• Treatment Methods: Traditional wastewater treatment can significantly reduce PFAS levels, but advanced methods like carbon filtration and advanced oxidation may be necessary to meet future limits.
• Industry Research: Ongoing studies, including those by Hubbard-Hall, are focusing on scalable and affordable PFAS removal solutions tailored to industries like metal finishing.
Tune in to learn how the finishing industry is navigating these new challenges, and what steps are being taken to stay compliant with ever-evolving environmental standards.