PFAS IN WASTEWATER SLUDGE & BIOSOLIDS
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PACE® HELPS PROTECT LOCAL COMMUNITIES WITH ADVANCED TESTING SERVICES FOR ANALYZING PFAS IN COMPLEX MATRICES LIKE WASTEWATER SLUDGE AND BIOSOLIDS.
THE PROBLEM WITH NATURAL FERTILIZERS
Land-applying wastewater sludge as fertilizer may seem like an ecological and economic idea, but when these biosolids are contaminated with PFAS, it can create a problem for neighboring communities. Pace® can help local leaders assess the state of PFAS contamination in biosolids before application. If biosolids have been routinely applied, we can also assess their impact on local soil, groundwater, and surface waters.EPA ASSESSES THE RISK OF PFAS IN BIOSOLIDS
Under the Clean Water Act (CWA), the EPA is authorized to set limits and monitoring/reporting requirements for PFAS in biosolids if there is a sufficient evidence of harm to human health or the environment. The agency’s 2021-2024 Strategic Plan calls for finalizing a risk assessment for PFOA and PFOS by winter 2024, paving the way for future rulemaking.
Concurrently, the EPA is collaborating with the DOD to finalize a multi-lab validated method capable of analyzing for 40 PFAS compounds in biosolids. Following publication, the agency will initiate rulemaking to promulgate this method under the CWA. (Expected fall 2022)
STATES TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT BIOSOLIDS
States are starting to reexamine the practice of using biosolids produced by wastewater treatment as a cheap fertilizer, thanks to PFAS being found in wastewater sludge and/or agricultural products like milk and eggs. Unfortunately, the alternative to land-application is often to send biosolids to a municipal landfill where they can contribute to PFAS contamination through leachate. The EPA plans to issue updated guidance to states on disposal of PFAS and materials that contain PFAS by fall of 2023.
PRIMARY TEST METHODS FOR PFAS IN BIOSOLIDS
Though testing biosolids for PFAS is a newer challenge for the industry, several test methods can be deployed by an experienced lab partner. Pace® can help you select the right method based on your project parameters.
PFAS by Isotope Dilution
Pace® method for targeted PFAS
DOD QSM v5.3; v5.4
Quality control standards for PFAS testing
EPA SW-846 Method 8327
Recently developed method for targeted PFAS
EPA Draft Method 1633
Under development. Targets additional PFAS
True-TOF®
Low-volume test method for total organofluorines (TOF)
Adsorbable Organoflourines (AOF)
Less costly, but less-precise method for analyzing for TOF
TOP Assay
Method for analyzing PFAS precursors in a liquid matrix
PFAS SAMPLING
Download our PFAS Sampling Guide for PFAS test method details including:
- Method descriptions
- Sampling guidelines
- Compound lists
REASONS TO CHOOSE PACE®
EXPERIENCED
Pace® has been an industry leader in persistent organic pollutant testing for over three decades.
CERTIFIED
We’re certified/accredited by NELAC, ISO, DOD, DOE, and in every state with a PFAS lab certification program.
RELIABLE
For emergencies, our Rapid Response Team can provide defensible results in as little as 24 hours.
COMMITTED
We are committed to helping our customers advance their important work through building strong relationships, delivering upon expectations, and providing exceptional customer service.
ADVANCED
We can test for PFAS in both solid and aqueous matrices, including potable and non-potable waters, soils, and biota.
INNOVATIVE
We’re on the leading edge of science, working with EPA, DOD, ASTM, and others to develop new methods for analyzing PFAS.
