PFAS in Waste Streams

Typical waste treatments and environmental conditions do not fully destroy PFAS. As passive receivers of PFAS-containing wastes, waste managers are exploring new technologies and management strategies to prevent PFAS release into the environment. 

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Highlighted Studies

PFAS in US Recycled Organics and Fertilizers (2024-2025)

In this study, we survey the presence of PFAS in diverse recycled organics and fertilizers (particularly compost-based soil amendments) to identify which feedstock materials contribute the most PFAS and determine best management practices.​

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PFAS in Food Waste Compost (2021-2023)
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In a case study investigating the sources and fate of PFAS in small-scale residential food waste composting facility, we found that compostable food contact materials such as bagasse takeout containers and paper plates (often treated with PFAS for the purpose of water and grease resistance) were a significant contributor of PFAS and that separating food contact materials from the food waste stream will reduce PFAS concentrations in mature food waste compost.
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What is the fate of PFAS during thermal landfill leachate evaporation? (2022-2023)

Project Website Link  
Publication: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134500