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Optimizing PFAS Destruction Pre- and Post-DAF Treatment

H2Plus Technologies partnered with the Michigan Landfill to conduct a pilot study aimed at identifying the most effective stage for PFAS destruction within the leachate treatment process. Given the complex nature of PFAS compounds and their varying behavior in different water chemistries, the study focused on comparing pre-DAF and post-DAF treatment scenarios. By leveraging H2Plus’s advanced hydrated electron technology, the pilot study provided critical insights into maximizing PFAS removal efficiency while ensuring cost-effective, scalable solutions for landfill operators.

Introduction

H2Plus Technologies embarked on a comprehensive pilot study at the Michigan Landfill to evaluate the efficiency of its PFAS destruction system at different stages of leachate treatment. The goal was to identify whether treating leachate before or after the dissolved air flotation (DAF) process would yield better results in reducing PFAS concentrations.

The Challenge

Determining the optimal treatment point in the leachate management process was critical. PFAS compounds behave differently depending on water chemistry, and understanding these dynamics was key to maximizing treatment efficiency.

Specific challenges included:

Fluctuating PFAS concentrations and compositions before and after the DAF system
Maintaining consistent PFAS destruction rates across varying leachate conditions
Balancing treatment efficiency with operational cost-effectiveness

Solution: H2Plus Hydrated Electron Technology

H2Plus conducted four pilot tests, with Tests #2, #3, and #5 focusing on leachate samples collected before the DAF system, while Test #4 analyzed samples post-DAF. The system’s hydrated electron technology targeted PFAS molecules, breaking down their robust C-F bonds and converting them into non-toxic end products.

Key Aspects of the Solution:

Versatile Treatment Capability: Effective in both pre- and post-DAF conditions.
Data-Driven Optimization: Adjustments based on real-time performance data.

Implementation and Results

Pre-DAF treatments consistently outperformed post-DAF treatments. In Test #5 (pre-DAF), PFOS levels were reduced from 1214.86 ng/L to 37.298 ng/L within 60 minutes. In contrast, Test #4 (post-DAF) achieved a reduction from 263.2 ng/L to 91.0 ng/L over the same duration. The data indicated that treating leachate before the DAF process allows for more efficient PFAS removal due to higher contaminant availability for hydrated electron interaction.

Conclusion

H2Plus technology excels in pre-DAF treatment scenarios, providing landfill operators with a strategic advantage in PFAS remediation. The results support early-stage intervention for maximum efficiency, cost savings, and environmental compliance.