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Wastewater discharge can be a primary conduit for PFAS into the environment and drinking water sources.
PFAS-contaminated wastewater is sent for treatment or discharged directly into the environment.
Collection systems send contaminated leachate to the municipal wastewater treatment plant.
Storm system run off containing PFAS is sent to the municipal wastewater treatment plant.
Runoff containing discharged AFFF is sent to the municipal wastewater treatment plant.
PFAS precursors are compounds that can be converted into terminal, targeted PFAS during traditional wastewater treatment processes.
Over the next 2-3 years, the EPA plans to strengthen its focus on PFAS in wastewater discharge through a number of existing programs.
Undertake rulemaking/study to restrict PFAS discharge from industrial sources
Propose additional monitoring requirements, leveraging new PFAS Test Method
Designate PFAS as a hazardous substance, clearing way for greater accountability for polluters
Develop/validate new methods to analyze for more PFAS in non-potable waters
States that issue their own NPDES permits often follow the EPA’s lead. The agency also plans to issue new guidance by winter 2022 to states that operate their own NPDES permitting system. This is expected to include the use of EPA Test Method 1633 once it is finalized and validated.
Several methods are available to analyze for targeted and non-targeted PFAS in wastewater. Pace® can help you select the right method based on the medium 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.