Understanding Gasification for PFAS Removal

The primary objective of this project is to comprehensively study the performance and feasibility of a full-scale thermal drying and pyrolysis facility to process municipal sludge as the feedstock, with a focus on the ability to remove/destroy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). To achieve this objective, the research team will (1) determine the fate of selected PFAS compounds through the unit processes, (2) perform mass balances on metals and organics around the various unit processes, (3) develop energy balances around system and unit processes, (4) determine produced synthetic gas quantity and quality, and (5) compare the process life cycle cost analysis to conventional sludge treatment and disposal technologies. Research partners: Alexandria Renew Enterprises, BioWaste Pyrolysis Solutions, Hazen and Sawyer, Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, Middlesex County Utilities Authority. and Portland Water District.