Home / PFAS Matrices / PFAS in Landfill Leachate
Leachate from unlined or poorly lined landfills, commonly found in industry and on construction sites, can contaminate local groundwater and surface water. Since PFAS don’t degrade naturally, contamination may continue for decades after the landfill has been decommissioned.
Municipal landfills are typically well lined, so leachate doesn’t leak directly into the surrounding environment. Instead, the leachate is often sent to the local wastewater treatment plant for processing. Unfortunately, traditional wastewater treatment processes do not remove PFAS and can convert PFAS precursors into terminal compounds
Both industrial and municipal landfills are easily contaminated with PFAS. Here are just a few common sources.
Roofing, carpeting, wiring, solar panels, and more may contain PFAS to make them more durable.
PFAS is often added to paper and paperboard food packaging to make it grease resistant.
PFAS has historically been used to weather-proof clothing or to make it flame retardant.
PFAS may be used in industrial applications as a lubricant or to increase mechanical durability.
PFAS added to plastics can prevent seepage and block noxious fumes and unpleasant odors.
Cosmetics, non-stick cookware, cleaning products and other waste may contain PFAS.
Many of the high profile PFAS lawsuits have involved industrial landfills, so even without specific laws targeting leachate, risk mitigation requires a focus in this area. In addition, the EPA plans to complete a detailed study on PFAS discharge from landfill by fall of 2022. They will use this data to inform future rulemaking.
Various methods can be used to assess PFAS in landfill leachate and solids. Pace® can help you select the right method based on your scenario and the goals of your project.
Pace® method for targeted PFAS
Quality control standards for PFAS testing
Recently developed method for targeted PFAS
Under development. Targets additional PFAS
Low-volume test method for total organofluorines (TOF)
Less costly, but less-precise method for analyzing for TOF
Method for analyzing PFAS precursors in a liquid matrix
Download our PFAS Sampling Guide for PFAS test method details including:
We’re certified/accredited by NELAC, ISO, DOD, DOE, and in every state with a PFAS lab certification program.
For emergencies, our Rapid Response Team can provide defensible results in as little as 24 hours.
We are committed to helping our customers advance their important work through building strong relationships, delivering upon expectations, and providing exceptional customer service.
We can test for PFAS in both solid and aqueous matrices, including potable and non-potable waters, soils, and biota.
We’re on the leading edge of science, working with EPA, DOD, ASTM, and others to develop new methods for analyzing PFAS.