Technologies for PFAS Treatment

PFAS includes thousands of different compounds and is highly resistant to degradation. These contaminants are complex, and not all PFAS substances behave in the same way, meaning that different types may require different treatment technologies. As a result, a solution that performs well in one project should not automatically be expected to deliver the same results in another.

To address this challenge, Swedish Hydro Solutions utilizes a range of technologies for PFAS treatment and always provides a solution tailored to the specific conditions of each project. Through many years of working with PFAS-contaminated water, we have built extensive experience with these complex contaminants and the practical challenges they can present.

Choosing the right treatment technology

Every PFAS-contaminated water project is unique, and the choice of treatment technology is influenced by factors such as PFAS concentration and composition, the presence of other contaminants, applicable regulations, waste management requirements, budget constraints, and site- and schedule-related limitations.

Because PFAS consists of thousands of compounds with different characteristics, different treatment solutions are often required. When selecting a treatment method, it is particularly important to consider the differences between short-chain and long-chain PFAS:

  • Short‑chain PFAS: More water-soluble and less likely to adsorb to activated carbon, often making ion exchange technology a more effective treatment option.
  • Long‑chain PFAS: Bind more strongly to particles and can therefore often be treated effectively using granular activated carbon (GAC) or BioMedia®.

The foundation of effective PFAS treatment

A thorough risk and needs assessment is essential for selecting the right treatment technology. That is why we carefully evaluate each project’s conditions before proposing a treatment system. This includes reviewing project documentation, completed investigations, and other relevant technical information.

We also conduct water sampling and treatment testing in our laboratory and, when appropriate, carry out bench-scale studies or pilot trials. Our goal is to provide a properly sized treatment system that ensures the project achieves the required target values.

FluorofIX® – Ion exchange technology

Swedish Hydro Solutions uses SciDev’s ion exchange technology, including FluorofIX® – a specially developed ion exchange technology that effectively and safely removes PFAS from contaminated water. The technology prevents breakthrough of contaminants, minimizes waste by-products, and enables treatment down to the lowest detection limits through optimized processes with strong and weak bases.

FluorofIX® systems are mobile and modular, making them easy to install and adapt for the treatment of contaminated surface water, groundwater, and liquid waste – even at high contamination levels. After treatment, the water can be safely discharged into the environment.

RegenIX™, which is integrated into the system design, regenerates ion exchange media on-site without significant additional costs and can reduce operating costs by up to 79%. The non-combustible regeneration solution generates a liquid-based waste stream that can be used in PFAS destruction technologies.

PFAS Treatment with ion exchange

Activated carbon och BioMedia®

Activated carbon (GAC) and BioMedia® are both filter materials used to bind and adsorb contaminants, including long-chain PFAS compounds, but they work in different ways. Activated carbon is effective for removing organic substances and PFAS through adsorption on the surface of the carbon particles.

BioMedia®, on the other hand, is a biodegradable filter material that combines physical and biological filtration. It is particularly useful in long-term water treatment or when a more sustainable alternative is desired. BioMedia® can also promote the biological degradation of certain substances, making it effective in long-term applications.

These materials are often combined to handle both PFAS-contaminated water and elevated levels of other contaminants, such as metals.

Facing challenges with PFAS?

Treating PFAS is often a complex process. Reach out to our experts today, and let’s work together to find an effective solution for your project.

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PFAS-related content

About PFAS

Short PFAS chains

Short PFAS chains—typically containing four to five carbon atoms, such as PFBA and PFBS—are more water‑soluble and mobile than long‑chain compounds.

About PFAS

Ultrashort PFAS chains

Ultrashort PFAS chains are highly water‑soluble compounds with two to three carbon atoms, making them extremely mobile and difficult to treat.