Contribution of filter media and biological processes (plants・microorganisms) in the removal of PFAS by the planting units

Abstract

PFAS have been used in a wide range of applications, including water and oil repellents and fire extinguishing agents, however certain PFAS (PFOA, PFOS and PFHxS) are listed in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. The prevention of PFAS pollution has been recognized as an important issue. Landfills are identified as potential PFAS sources and PFAS detection in landfill leachate has been well documented across countries. Typically, PFAS are removed using activated carbon, but the sorption capacity of activated carbon quickly reaches saturation, mandating its replacement, which is costly. For sustainable PFAS remediation, we are developing the planting units that utilise the interactions between filter media, plants and micro-organisms. The efficient removal of 13 PFAS from landfill leachate by planting units was confirmed. In this study, the contribution of filter media and biological processes (plants・microorganisms) to PFAS removal in the planting unit was evaluated.