Enhanced Electrokinetic PFAS Soil Remediation Using Industrial Byproduct Permeable Reactive Barriers

Overview

This advanced in-situ soil remediation technology improves the removal and capture of persistent PFAS compounds from contaminated clay and kaolinite soils. By integrating electrokinetic (EK) processing with specially designed Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs), the system creates an efficient, electrochemical pathway that addresses the limitations of conventional soil treatment methods. This approach is particularly valuable for sites contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are often challenging to remove due to their stability and tendency to adsorb to soil particles.

Technical specifications

The technology utilizes a low-density direct electric current to drive the transport of contaminants through the soil via electroosmosis, electromigration, and electrophoresis. Key technical features include:

• Enhanced removal efficiency using biosurfactants, such as Sodium Cholate, to mobilize PFAS compounds.
• Customized Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs) composed of sustainable industrial byproducts, including iron-coated activated carbon or iron slag.
• Strategic placement of PRBs within the electrokinetic cell to optimize the capture of mobilized contaminants.
• Regenerable barrier media, allowing for extraction of collected PFAS and reuse of the PRB materials, contributing to a more sustainable lifecycle.
• Anolyte recycling options to manage pH levels and reduce chemical consumption, further lowering operational costs.

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at a laboratory-scale validation stage (TRL 4). Extensive bench-top experimental studies have been conducted using kaolinite as a model soil to characterize removal efficiencies, optimize PRB materials, and assess the impact of electrical parameters. While the fundamental electrochemical mechanisms are well-understood and demonstrated in controlled environments, the transition to field-scale pilots is the next required phase for commercial...