How an Innovative Plasma Technology Is Set to Remove PFAS from Fire Rinsate Effectively

The chemicals that give AFFF its heat-resistant properties are PFAS. These substances have stubbornly persistent effects and potentially harmful effects on human health and the environment. As the DoD and others move to transition away from legacy AFFF formulations, a new challenge has emerged. How can the PFAS-laden residue left behind in thousands of military firefighting systems be safely disposed of and treated? 

Luckily, researchers may have discovered a way to bust up this brew of “forever chemicals” using a rather unconventional approach. Join us as we look at this revolutionary approach. We will examine its potential to solve the tricky PFAS clean-up conundrum.

The Double-Edged Sword of AFFF

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a specialized firefighting agent prized for its ability to rapidly extinguish fires involving jet fuel and other highly flammable chemicals. 

For over five decades, the U.S. military has relied on AFFF to combat fires and spills where water proves ineffective. This synthetic foam’s unique properties allow it to form a dense, low-viscosity barrier over flammable liquids, preventing reignition.

However, AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of synthetic chemicals in use since the mid-20th century. Often called “forever chemicals” due to their exceptional persistence, PFAS can accumulate in human bodies over time. 

Exposure to PFAS has been connected in studies to a number of health concerns, such as hormonal imbalances, congenital impairments, and cardiovascular disorders. Furthermore, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has designated one PFAS compound, perfluorooctanoic acid, as a possible carcinogen.

Environmental contamination is also a significant concern. Improper storage or disposal of AFFF can lead to PFAS infiltrating soil and water sources. This poses health risks to nearby populations.

2022 study examined the in vitro toxicity of two historical AFFF formulations using human liver cells. The research revealed that both formulations exhibited toxic effects, particularly in terms of cell death and oxidative stress. One brand, 3M, showed comparatively higher toxicity.

As a result of these findings and associated health risks, numerous lawsuits have been filed. They are filed for individuals and groups affected by occupational exposure to AFFF or contaminated water sources. As per TorHoerman Law, factors that can determine a settlement amount for an AFFF lawsuit include:

  • The amount or degree of exposure to firefighting foam.
  • Details about cancer diagnosis.
  • Hospital fees and treatment costs. 
  • Other compensatory or punitive damages. 
  • Strength of the legal case. 

Legal experts speculate that potential AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts could range from $40,000 to $300,000 or more. These amounts depend on the specific circumstances of the exposure, diagnoses, legal approach, and other factors in each case. Larger class action suits representing communities with contaminated water supplies could result in even higher total settlement amounts.

Treatment of AFFF Rinsate Using Plasma Technology

The Department of Defense (DoD) has over 3,000 firefighting delivery systems used at aircraft hangars and in vehicles. These systems currently use aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) containing harmful PFAS chemicals.

As the DoD switches to PFAS-free firefighting alternatives, these existing systems must be cleaned out, generating large volumes of PFAS-containing rinsate waste. This project aims to develop an effective treatment system for this AFFF rinsate.

Researchers at Clarkson University are testing an innovative plasma technology to destroy PFAS in liquid waste streams like AFFF rinsate. Plasma treatment uses electricity to convert water into mixtures of reactive species that can break down PFAS compounds. A key feature is using argon gas bubbles to concentrate PFAS at the liquid-gas interface where the reactive plasma species are generated.

In preliminary tests, Clarkson University’s plasma reactor significantly reduced long-chain PFAS and precursors in AFFF rinsate within an hour of treatment. Pre-treating with oxidizing agents like persulfate improved removal rates for more concentrated solutions. The team is optimizing reactor parameters and integrating them onto a mobile trailer unit for testing at DoD facilities.

Compared to existing PFAS filtration methods, plasma treatment provides treatment within minutes without generating new waste. It offers over 50% potential cost savings for the DoD. If successful, this new plasma technology could efficiently manage large volumes of AFFF rinsate waste. This would aid the DoD’s transition to PFAS-free firefighting systems. 

FAQs

1. What are some new methods for treating PFAS contamination?

A: Recent advancements in PFAS treatment include several innovative approaches. These encompass the use of specialized resins for ion exchange, various adsorption techniques, cutting-edge oxidation processes, and filtration systems based on membrane technology. 

2. How does a recently developed technique break down PFAS?

A: A groundbreaking method for PFAS destruction has been patented in the United States. This approach combines two technologies: ozone delivered via nanobubbles and ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. Together, these processes work to break down these persistent environmental contaminants, often referred to as “forever chemicals.”

3. Is PFAS contamination a concern in drinking water?

A: PFAS contamination in drinking water is indeed a growing concern. Scientists have detected both long-established and newer PFAS compounds in human blood samples. There may be negative health effects if drinking water tainted with high levels of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is consumed. These may include elevated cholesterol levels and changes in liver enzyme activity. 

Innovations like Clarkson University’s plasma treatment technology represent an exciting new frontier in the global effort to remediate legacy PFAS pollution. 

Plasma is a rapid, effective, and economically viable method for destroying these harmful “forever chemicals.” It promises to solve the challenge of treating AFFF rinsate waste. Progress on this technological frontier holds great potential to mitigate past harms and safeguard communities for future generations.