Electrochemical technologies for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances mitigation in drinking water and water treatment residuals

Abstract

Water treatment technologies are needed that can convert per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into inorganic products (e.g., CO2, F−) that are less toxic than parent PFAS compounds. Research on electrochemical treatment processes such as electrocoagulation and electrooxidation has demonstrated proof-of-concept PFAS removal and destruction. However, research has primarily been conducted in laboratory matrices that are electrochemically favorable (e.g., high initial PFAS concentration [μg/L–mg/L], high conductivity, and absence of oxidant scavengers). Electrochemical treatment is also a promising technology for treating PFAS in water treatment residuals from nondestructive technologies (e.g., ion exchange, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis). Future electrochemical PFAS treatment research should focus on environmentally relevant PFAS concentrations (i.e., ng/L), matrix conductivity, natural organic matter impacts, short-chain PFAS removal, transformation products analysis, and systems-level analysis for cost evaluation. Article Impact Statement: Electrochemical treatment is capable of destroying per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, but future research should reflect more realistic drinking water sources.