Destruction of PFAS in contaminated water streams

THE CHALLENGE

PFAS represents a group of chemical compounds with a broad application range, including water repellent textiles and fire extinguishers. As PFAS components are extremely poorly degradable, they have acquired the title ‘forever chemicals’. The broad use, the poor degradability and the extremely high toxicity levels cause a serious threat to the health of humans and the environment.

SOLUTION AND IMPACT

Previous research by KWR and partners has revealed that SuperCritical Water Gasification (SCW-G) is a powerful candidate for PFAS degradation. Water becomes ‘supercritical’ at a temperature 374 ^oC in combination with a pressure 221 bar. Under these conditions the physical-chemical behaviour of water changes dramatically, resulting in a proper environment for cracking organics including PFAS. The final product is syngas, which contains valuables including hydrogen and methane. Destruction rates up to >99% have been shown, depending on the matrix, type of PFAS compound and process operation. Current projects focus on testing different water matrices, optimization of process conditions and upscaling the process.

STATUS

Allied Waters partners with SCW Systems, specialist in supercritical technology. SCW Systems runs a SCW-G demonstration plants at a scale 2,5 m³ per hour each in Alkmaar, NL. For (on site) optimization studies we offer a mobile pilot plant, Compact ONE. The upscaling trials continue during 2027 and beyond.

Learn more here (in English) or here (in Dutch)