Our expert teams are pioneering solutions to one of the most complex environmental challenges of our era.
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Other challenges that we have overcome
We are applying innovation and groundbreaking research to develop practical, efficient solutions for PFAS testing, assessment and treatment.
A database of known PFAS associations with industries, processes and products to evaluate potential PFAS within supply chains and the likelihood of legacy environmental releases at subject sites and nearby facilities.
We have refined a multi-stage desktop protocol that combines the likelihood of a historic PFAS release with potential receptor impacts. The protocol is risk-based and customizable and can be used to identify and rank reputational risks and financial liabilities.
Our vulnerability services help clients respond to increasing public pressure and regulatory scrutiny, supporting them to eliminate PFAS through systematic, documented supply chain and operations assessments. PFAS and PFAS byproducts are identified and tracked through occupational exposure points and waste streams, and action plans to eliminate PFAS risk are developed in alignment with client goals.
Advanced analytical and sampling
We are skilled at leveraging targeted and non-targeted analytical methods and advanced sampling techniques, including passive samplers and lysimeters, to gather the necessary information to build a complete picture of PFAS impacts.
Vapor Phase PFAS
Volatilization of short-chain and neutral PFAS, such as fluorotelomer alcohols, is proving to be a major PFAS transport pathway that is rapidly gaining regulatory attention. Our team brings expert knowledge and extensive experience of assessing and mitigating the PFAS vapour risks associated with landfills, residential and workplace vapour intrusion, and occupational exposure.
Automated and machine learning tools
PFAS testing programs generate large quantities of data, making robust data interpretation challenging and time consuming. We are using machine learning to simplify this process, yielding new insights into the challenges that PFAS present, and the potential solutions.
Groundwater Plume Analytics®
Our Groundwater Plume Analytics® tools provide clients with more accurate ways to assess risks and legacy impacts by mining existing data, developing solutions that are cost-effective and resilient, and presenting information in a way that is compelling and easy to understand.
Destructive treatment technologies
WSP has focused on the advancement of several PFAS treatment technologies with specific focus on destructive solutions to end PFAS cycling through the environment, lower costs and reduce liabilities. These include:
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Super critical water oxidation: We partnered with a supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) technology provider to verify and validate the onsite destruction and mineralization of PFAS remediation wastes, such as spent PFAS-laden ion exchange resin or GAC.
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Plasma: Low-temperature plasma destruction of PFAS in high-concentration solutions. PFAS rise to the surface of the reactor vessels, assisted by argon gas diffusers, and are fully destroyed in a matter of hours.
Nature-based solutions
We are exploring the potential of nature-based solutions to remediate PFAS-contaminated sites, to address contexts where traditional methods are impractical, and provide co-benefits to people and nature.
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Separation and Stabilization Technologies
Our team designed, operated and maintained some of the first PFAS treatment systems, and we have been developing and demonstrating separation, stabilization and destruction technologies since 2015, including:
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WSP treatability study labs
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WSP treatment trailers
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Full scale treatment systems
From small to large flows, from in-situ to ex-situ, from conventional to innovative technologies, we provide experience-based, scientifically advanced, economically efficient solutions tailored to each site.
WSP's risk assessors conduct multi-pathway PFAS risk assessments, specialize in dietary exposure evaluations, and routinely develop toxicology reviews and assessments.
WSP has developed a tool to assess the impact of climate change on PFAS contaminated sites for potential remedial options or treatment technologies already in operation. The tool helps with responsible and cost-effective decision-making, strategic planning, and risk management at the site and/or portfolio level. Climate change impacts specifically addressed by the tool include:
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Temperature
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Snow cover
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Precipitation / storm events
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Change in permafrost
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Flora shift
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Fauna shift
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High winds
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Erosion
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Drought
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Wildfires
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Sea level rise / Artic Sea level change
Send a message / PFAS Management, Investigation and Treatment
What are PFAS, and why are they called “forever chemicals”?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals. Some of them are known for their persistence in the environment and the human body, hence the nickname “forever chemicals.”
Where are PFAS commonly found?
PFAS are found in various industrial processes and products, including several water, oil and stain-resistant materials (non-stick cookware, water-resistant fabrics, food packaging, electronics, etc.), firefighting foams, and several other items. As a result of their widespread use, PFAS are present in solid waste, wastewater, biosolids and can be released from areas where firefighting foams are used, industrial facilities and other sites where PFAS-containing materials are used or disposed of.
How do PFAS contaminate drinking water?
PFAS can enter water supplies through releases, leaks and/or discharges from the sources described above.
What health risks are associated with PFAS exposure?
Exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to health issues such as cancer, liver damage, thyroid disease, and developmental effects in infants. Several studies are underway to more accurately quantify risks to exposure to individual PFAS and mixtures.
How can PFAS contamination be detected and measured?
Robust sampling methods implemented by experienced teams are fundamental for collection of reliable PFAS data and avoid pitfalls. Analytical methods include targeted (focused on specific compounds) and non-targeted testing. Field screening methods are also being developed and tested for more rapid decision-making and increased efficiency. Characterization of ambient PFAS concentrations is paramount to be able to assess “true” PFAS impacts.
How are PFAS data interpreted?
Interpreting PFAS data in terms of mass or mass fluxes rather than simply concentrations often leads to more practical approaches for PFAS management. Data analytics is a critical component of a sound PFAS data interpretation due to the number of compounds and complexity of PFAS composition, fate and transport and potential transformation. Machine learning and visualization tools can be leveraged to enhance data interpretation, providing clearer insights into PFAS distribution and sources.
What are the main methods for PFAS remediation, treatment or removal?
Traditional methods like granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration, ion exchange resins, and foam fractionation can separate and remove PFAS from water and wastewater at various levels of efficiency. However, destructive technologies are required to fully break the carbon-fluorine bonds and stop PFAS cycling in the environment. Selecting the right approach depends on site-specific factors, including treatment goals, PFAS composition, total mass or mass flux, operational needs, and costs.
Is it better to destroy PFAS on-site or transport them for treatment or disposal?
It depends on site specific objectives and characteristics. On-site destruction of PFAS can be more efficient in some cases, prevents the risks associated with transporting hazardous materials, and eliminates the liability associated with third-party treatment or disposal.
What are the costs associated with PFAS destruction technologies?
Costs vary depending on the technology, scale, and specific application. While some methods may have higher initial investments, they can offer long-term savings by reducing operational costs and consumables. Destruction technologies are often more cost-effective when PFAS concentrations are higher.
