The proposed project will include an evaluation of the various treatment options that are known to remove PFAS. This includes advanced treatment options such as Granular Activated Carbon (GAC), Anion Exchange (AIX), and Reverse Osmosis/Nanofiltration (RO/NF), at a minimum. The benefits of feeding increased dosages of Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) will be evaluated as well. The study will involve research and bench scale testing to determine the efficiency of PFAS removal for each treatment option. In addition, the study will evaluate which of the treatment options, or combination of options, is also capable of treating the algal byproducts geosmin and 2-Methylisoborneol (MIB), which would be an added benefit to ensure the City is capable of treating water to minimize taste and order concerns during future algal blooms. Pros and cons of each of the advanced treatment options related to the City’s specific site characteristics will be considered. This will include a review of the efficiency, required construction footprint, upfront capital costs, maintenance costs, residuals/solids handling, ease of operation, and long-term impacts. Upon completion of the research and bench scale testing, pilot testing will be performed on one or more technologies to determine actual removal efficiencies and the design dosages required to meet the proposed regulations. PFAS sampling and analyses will be performed over the course of the study in order to track the removal rates. It will also be necessary to observe potential negative impacts to the plant due to treatment interferences.
