Is There a Right Way to Handle PFAS Disposal?

If PFAS are found nearly everywhere, what are the most effective methods for their destruction and disposal? Let’s explore the available techniques.

In 2024, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the latest updated version of its “Interim Guidance on the Destruction and Disposal of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Materials Containing Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.” This document serves as a guide for managers and companies responsible for managing waste containing PFAS. The guidance provides information on the existing scientific knowledge regarding the most common methods for destroying and disposing of PFAS.

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Notably, this guidance does not establish any regulatory requirements for the destruction or disposal of PFAS. It is merely a reference document. Additionally, it includes a framework for evaluating emerging technologies for PFAS destruction or disposal.

EPA assesses three available technologies based on their potential to release PFAS into the environment. They considered factors such as volatilization, air dispersion, and leachate.

PFAS Disposal

• Underground Injection

Class I non-hazardous industrial or hazardous waste injection wells have a lower potential for environmental release. Engineers design them to isolate liquid wastes deep below the land surface, protecting underground drinking water sources. However, the availability and appropriateness of this technology can vary by location.

• Landfills

Hazardous waste landfills (Subtitle C) with rigorous engineering controls are the most suitable option for containing PFAS waste in landfills. They generate low amounts of leachate, reducing the risk of PFAS mobilization, and are required to treat leachate as hazardous waste. Nonetheless, researchers need to conduct further studies to address remaining uncertainties about PFAS migration.

• Thermal Treatment

High-temperature incineration in hazardous waste combustors, such as commercial incinerators, cement kilns, and lightweight aggregate kilns, can destroy PFAS. Researchers emphasize that temperatures must exceed 1,100°C (2,012°F) and there must be sufficient residence time for complete mineralization of PFAS. However, this method requires meticulous monitoring and control to ensure destruction and minimize the formation of harmful byproducts.

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The above technologies are the most widely used methods for the destruction and disposal of PFAS. Experts recognize them for their effectiveness and their ability to control PFAS release into the environment. Nevertheless, the EPA states that practical data on these technologies is limited. Therefore, additional performance and testing data may change the EPA’s understanding of each technology’s ability to control PFAS. In the meantime, the current guidance provides waste managers with a framework for properly destroying and disposing of PFAS-containing materials.

You can read the complete guidance here.