Pilot-Scale Adsorption of PFAS in RO Concentrate from Potable Reuse Systems

Reverse osmosis membranes (RO) are often used for potable reuse. However, the resulting RO concentrate (ROC) produced often contains elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), organics, and inorganics. While there are currently no regulatory limits for PFAS discharge of municipal treated effluents, systems must be prepared to remove PFAS from ROC should strict regulations be implemented in the future. This project will evaluate the efficacy of using granular activated carbon (GAC), ion exchange resins (IX), and surface-modified bentonite organoclay (SMC) to remove PFAS from ROC, with and without pretreatment using magnetic ion exchange (MIEX) resins for TOC reduction. The project will quantify treatment performance and estimate the cost-effectiveness of these approaches. Results will help utilities better manage PFAS in ROC, enhance potable reuse feasibility, and prepare for potential future discharge regulations.