PFAS Removal System
SKB Environmental is at the forefront of tackling PFAS contamination with our innovative solutions. In 2024, we installed a full-scale PFAS pre-treatment system at the SKB Rosemount landfill, marking a significant milestone as the first of its kind in Minnesota and the Nation. Modern lined landfills are part of the solution to responsibly managing PFAS containing waste streams.
With the addition of this state-of-the-art system designed to efficiently remove PFAS from landfill leachate, SKB intends to be the industry leader in the safe and responsible management of PFAS wastes.
About PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industrial applications and consumer products due to their water, grease, and stain-resistant properties. Commonly found in items like non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, and some firefighting foams, PFAS are incredibly persistent in the environment and human body, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals." Due to their widespread use and persistence in the environment, PFAS compounds have been subject to increased regulatory scrutiny, prompting efforts to develop effective removal and remediation technologies.
The PFAS Removal Process
Foam fractionation is an innovative and efficient process for removing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from contaminated water. This technique utilizes the unique property of PFAS molecules, which tend to accumulate at the air-water interface due to their dual hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature.
During foam fractionation, air is bubbled through the contaminated water, creating foam that traps PFAS compounds. The foam, enriched with PFAS, is then skimmed off, effectively separating and concentrating the pollutants from the water.
This method offers several advantages, including low energy consumption, minimal chemical usage, and the ability to handle large volumes of water. By implementing foam fractionation, environmental engineers can significantly reduce PFAS levels in water bodies, contributing to safer water supplies and a healthier ecosystem.
Designed, owned, commissioned and operated by ALTRA SANEXEN, the full-scale PFAS pre-treatment system at the SKB Rosemount landfill was installed in December 2023 and started PFAS treatment in the leachate in January 2024. The flow through nominal capacity is 50 gpm or 72,000 gpd, with a target treatment removal of 75% of all PFAS constituents andas high as 99% of PFOA and PFOS.
SKB Rosemount Foam Fractionator
The PFAS foam fractionator at the SKB Rosemount facility stands out for its unique qualities that enhance its efficiency and sustainability in addressing PFAS contamination.
One of its key features is its advanced air injection system, which optimizes the formation of bubbles to maximize the capture of PFAS compounds. This high-efficiency design enables the fractionator to handle large volumes of landfill leachate, ensuring thorough treatment without significant energy consumption.
Additionally, the system's modular construction allows for easy scalability, accommodating varying levels of PFAS contamination and future expansion needs. The fractionator also boasts a user-friendly interface for monitoring and adjusting operational parameters, ensuring precise control over the treatment process.
By integrating these cutting-edge technologies, the PFAS foam fractionator at SKB Rosemount not only effectively removes stubborn contaminants but also sets a new standard for environmentally responsible waste management practices.