Technologies for PFAS Treatment

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

To meet this challenge, Swedish Hydro Solutions works with several different technologies when handling PFAS‑contaminated water in our projects, offering a tailored solution based on the specific needs of each site. Over the years, we have built extensive experience in understanding how these complex contaminants behave, particularly when combined with other treatment methods.

Selecting the right treatment technology

Every project involving PFAS‑contaminated water is unique, and the choice of technology is influenced by factors such as PFAS concentration and structure, the presence of other contaminants, regulatory requirements, waste management, budget, and site‑ or time‑related constraints.

As noted earlier, PFAS comprises thousands of compounds that behave differently, and they often require specific treatment technologies. When selecting a method, the differences between short‑chain and long‑chain PFAS must be considered carefully:

  • Short‑chain PFAS: More water‑soluble and bind less effectively to activated carbon, making ion‑exchange technology a more efficient solution.

  • Long‑chain PFAS: Less soluble and bind more strongly to particles, making activated carbon and BioMedia® suitable treatment options.

A thorough risk and needs assessment is essential to selecting the right technology. We therefore always conduct a detailed analysis before proposing a treatment system. This includes reviewing project documentation, investigations, and defined conditions.

We perform water sampling and treatment tests at our laboratory and, when relevant, carry out bench‑scale studies or pilot testing. Our focus is to design and propose a well‑dimensioned system that ensures the project meets its required limit values.

FluorofIX® from SciDev

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.

More 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.

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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