PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used since the 1950s. However, the negative effects of PFAS on human and environmental health are now being recognised. Their presence in soil and groundwater poses assessment and remediation challenges: there is no robust protocol for the analysis of PFAS and most existing remediation technologies are inadequate and unsustainable. A regulatory framework for the risk assessment of contaminants is also lacking.
OBJECTIVES
LIFE CAPTURE aims to overcome the most pressing PFAS-related challenges and provide workable, sustainable methods for managing this type of persistent contaminant in the environment. Specifically, the project will develop sustainable management and treatment methods for PFAS contamination in soil and groundwater. It will also address pertinent issues regarding PFAS contamination that align with regulatory and policy initiatives in EU regions where these contaminants are currently of high concern.
More specifically, LIFE Capture aims to:
- Develop a robust analytical protocol;
- Develop methods to monitor the transport of PFAS from soil to groundwater and to receptors;
- Identify and test novel and cost-effective technologies for optimising the remediation approaches (> 98% removal efficiency); and
- Develop a pragmatic risk and effect assessment approach.
RESULTS
Expected results:
- PFAS characterisation and partial remediation at four sites,
- Generation of 9.5 full-time equivalent jobs,
- Avoiding 1 838 tonnes of CO2, and
- Removing 2.8 kg of PFAS.
