Name

Electrochemical oxidation for the elimination of PFAS from contaminated water

Speakers

Dr Olga Efremova*

Authors

Kath Deeley and Olga Efremova, Arvia Water Technologies, UK

Description

There are several emerging technologies to remove and/or destroy PFAS in water. Among them are those using Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Processes (EAOPs). Key to the success of EAOPs are electrode materials and reactor design. For the former it is preferred that anodes are inactive to promote the formation of highly reactive hydroxyl radicals (·OH), which is capable of breaking strong C-F bonds. EAOPs are dependent on mass transfer of PFAS to the electrode surface which is proportional to the PFAS concentration/electrode surface area. To operate efficiently, EAOPS will treat ppm levels of PFAS. When combined with concentration technologies like RO, nanofiltration or foam fractionation, destruction can be performed efficiently and PFAS removed to ppb levels or lower.  

Boron Doped Diamond is an expensive material but can produce hydroxyl radicals reactive enough to destroy PFAS. Currently this material can only be provided on flat substrates, although research is being done to develop foams. Arvia tackled the PFAS problem by developing a cheap, high surface area anode, Nyex.3. Research has shown that Nyex.3 can destroy PFAS and tolerate fluoride. Arvia has progressed their work from proof-of-concept stage to pilot studies and will be testing a pilot reactor in the field this year.

Time

2:55 PM - 3:07 PM

Location Name

Room 3

Track

10:05 - 16:15 Micropollutants & Emerging Contaminants