PFAS: Regulations, Challenges, and Path Forward

A comprehensive technical presentation addresses federal PFAS regulations, treatment technologies, and implementation pathways for water utilities. The presentation documents EPA drinking water MCL regulations for PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, and HFPO-DA (GenX), with enforceable compliance timelines beginning 2027. A technology readiness matrix categorizes treatment approaches including separation methods (RO/NF, ED-RO hybrid, foam fractionation) at TRL 4–9 and emerging destruction pathways (advanced oxidation, plasma, electron beam) at TRL 1–6. Key finding: biotreatment converts PFAS mixtures into stable endpoints, with 75–100% of compounds accumulating in biosolids. A five-step laboratory selection protocol addresses sampling complexity, cross-contamination prevention, and analytical data deliverables for facilities developing PFAS treatment programs.