Grantee Research Project Results
Three-way removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances from high-strength landfill leachate utilizing simultaneous foaming and humic acid precipitation during pH adjustment
EPA Grant Number: SU840582Title: Three-way removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances from high-strength landfill leachate utilizing simultaneous foaming and humic acid precipitation during pH adjustment
Investigators: Iskander, Syeed Md
Current Investigators: Iskander, Syeed Md , Saha, Biraj , Yadav, Himani , Khan, Md Tanbir
Institution: North Dakota State University Main Campus
EPA Project Officer: Spatz, Kyle
Phase: I
Project Period: August 1, 2023 through April 25, 2025
Project Amount: $24,982
RFA: 19th Annual P3 Awards: A National Student Design Competition Focusing on People, Prosperity and the Planet Request for Applications (RFA) (2022) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Heavy Metal Contamination of Soil/Water , P3 Awards , P3 Challenge Area - Safe and Sustainable Water Resources , Urban Air Toxics
Description:
Landfill leachate is one of the major sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to the environment. Due to the complexity of leachate composition, PFAS treatment in leachate is more challenging than other water matrices. Thus, there is a pressing need to investigate innovative treatments for efficient PFAS removal from high-strength landfill leachate.
Objective:
The objectives of this project are to (i) evaluate the effect of simple pH adjustment on PFAS removal due to humic acid precipitation and foaming at low pH, (ii) evaluate the performance of a membrane electrochemical reactor to remove PFAS in precipitated humic acid and foam at low pH in the anode chamber, and (iii) evaluate preliminary treatments (e.g., GAC+UV/Sulfite, combustion) of coalesced foam, humic acids, and the remaining fraction of leachate for PFAS destruction.
Approach:
The proposed treatment process is based on the synergistic combination of individual treatments and has great potential to remove PFAS from leachate effectively. We will identify the PFAS separation mechanisms in foam and precipitated humic acid based on the chemical properties (e.g., chain length, head groups) of the PFAS compounds. Besides, we will identify the adequate combustion conditions for PFAS removal from humic acid and the possible byproducts formed during combustion. A preliminary study will be conducted on PFAS removal in the GAC+UV/Sulfite process for coalesced foam, defoamed leachate, and raw leachate.
Expected Results:
The proposed project offers simple and executable approaches for separating and treating PFAS from high-strength leachate. Thus, the project would greatly interest the solid waste industry and help develop control and remediation measures for PFAS in high-strength leachate. The outreach activities conducted at United Tribes Technical College and NDSU STEM Kids Camp will enhance the awareness of young people on environmental pollution. The participants will learn about the need for pollution remediation, focusing on EPA’s People, Prosperity, and Planet approach.
Publications and Presentations:
Publications have been submitted on this project: View all 1 publications for this projectSupplemental Keywords:
Leachate concentrate, forever chemicals, recalcitrant organics, thermal treatment, surfactant propertyProgress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.