Objective
Over the past decade, ESTCP has invested significant resources into the research and development of technologies to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in groundwater, surface waters, and other media. This critical work has resulted in large volumes of performance data from treatment scales ranging from bench-scale to field studies. In this project, a comprehensive PFAS Treatment Clearinghouse (PTC) Tool to house empirically based remediation knowledge will be developed to aggregate data and PFAS remediation technologies' technology readiness levels (TRLs). The tool will be a synthesis of a successful past approach used by ESTCP for chlorinated solvent sites, with current PFAS treatment technology synthesis. By developing the web-based PTC Tool to facilitate access to this consolidated repository of information, it can be ensured that the tool remains current and adaptable to the evolving landscape of PFAS remediation.
Technology Description
The web-based PTC Tool will focus on data compilation and comparison of the following
- In situ and ex situ treatment technologies that have been field-demonstrated with a TRL of six or greater (both soil and groundwater)
- Performance data from published works (journal articles, book chapters), field demonstration reports from ESTCP projects, interviews with Principal Investigators and publicly available reports
- Quantitative performance data (e.g., percent removal, influent/effluent concentrations) and comparisons based on key characteristics (e.g., separation/sorption/destruction technologies, laboratory-scale versus field-scale data of technology, target media [groundwater, surface water, concentrate, etc.], in situ versus ex situ, etc.)
- Downloadable database on all other relevant technology evaluation criteria (e.g., treatment volume, pre-treatment requirements, waste streams)
- Links to individual qualitative Technology Summary Snapshots and additional resources including other ESTCP technology transfer products (e.g., Enviro Wiki, Mobile App, podcasts), and industry-led guidance documents (e.g. Interstate Technology Regulatory Council).
Performance comparison charts will allow users to quickly surf through the tool to evaluate how well it performs, with links to more detailed technology information, without having to download a plethora of reports and papers. The web tool will be developed using the R-Shiny framework and will be publicly accessible from any modern web browser through a secure https:// connection.
Benefits
With this tool, site managers can easily access an up-to-date, highly curated PFAS remediation knowledge base without having to download reports and papers. Rather, users will be able to quickly surf through the PTC Tool to learn how a technology works, when and where it is used, and most importantly, how well it performs. Such a tool will not only enhance the quality of decision-making among stakeholders, but also provide a means to navigate the forthcoming surge of feasibility study projects with a level of preparedness and insight previously unattainable. Successful completion of this effort will ultimately improve the cost effectiveness of PFAS treatment technologies, directly benefiting the warfighter and installation communities. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2026)