The persistence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as a defining environmental challenge for the chemical industry. These compounds, often termed “forever chemicals,” resist conventional degradation pathways due to their strong carbon–fluorine bonds and structural stability. Alongside PFAS, a broad class of micropollutants, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, industrial additives, and endocrine-disrupting compounds, are increasingly detected at trace levels in water and soil, raising concerns about long-term ecological and human health impacts.
Removing micropollutants from water and wastewater is not only an environmental issue which could prevent damage to the environment but also a regulatory one. Increasingly sensitive analytical techniques are enabling regulators to identify the presence of organic micropollutants in both water and wastewater.
Inadequately treated effluent containing organic micropollutants is causing environmental and public health concerns on a global scale. Regulation states that when discharging to the sewer or the environment, levels of micropollutants must not breach specified limits and fines are issued when they do. As conventional wastewater treatment processes were not designed to remove organic micropollutants, they can persist after treatment and residues are found in water bodies around the world.
Arvia’s Approach to Tackling Micropollutants
Arvia’s design specialists optimise each system to preferentially treat the micropollutants found in a client’s wastewater stream, enabling the treated water to meet individual discharge regulations. In most cases, treated water is also safe for reuse as process water within the business. This saves utility costs and boosts positive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as pressures rise in relation to sustainable operations.
Nyex™ systems can be installed as a standalone treatment or retrofitted into an existing treatment train. This is of particular benefit when water is extracted for distribution by utilities companies as micropollutants found in source water can surpass traditional treatment.
Case Studies
PFAS – Landfill Leachate (Figure 1)
Landfill operators are increasingly dealing with the legacy issue of PFAS-containing wastes that were historically accepted before the environmental persistence of these compounds was fully understood. PFAS can leach from disposed materials over prolonged periods, leading to contamination of landfill leachate. As regulatory scrutiny increases and discharge limits tighten, operators are under pressure to implement treatment solutions capable of reducing PFAS concentrations prior to discharge or off-site treatment. The client therefore wished to evaluate a treatment approach combining membrane concentration with Nyex Florenox™ for destruction.
Phenol Removal from Wastewater (Figure 2)
Phenol and phenolic compounds are considered significant organic micropollutants. While they can be present in high concentrations in industrial wastewater, they are classified as micropollutants because they are frequently detected in surface water and treated wastewater at extremely low, trace concentrations (nanograms to micrograms per litre) and possess high environmental persistence and toxicity.
Conclusion
While micropollutants in wastewater present challenges, understanding their sources, risks, and treatment options is crucial for protecting both human health and the environment. Continued research and innovation in treatment technologies, alongside effective regulatory strategies, are essential in mitigating their impact. Through a combination of advanced treatment methods and proactive prevention measures, we can address the complexities of micropollutants and strive for a safer, cleaner future.
ABOUT ARVIA TECHNOLOGY
Arvia Technology specialises in advanced water treatment solutions, focusing on the removal of specific organic contaminants and PFAS from industrial wastewater. Arvia are world leading experts in the removal of recalcitrant organics.
With almost two decades in the industry, they have proven experience and offer solutions that suit your specific needs. Arvia operates in the environmental technology sector, serving a diverse range of clients including the life sciences, chemical manufacturing, and textile industries.
Environmental sustainability is at the heart of Arvia’s vision, and they have a strong focus on fulfilling their social responsibilities. They provide a range of services to help you manage your effluent including treatability trials, pilot unit rental, remote monitoring and full-service packages to suit your requirements.
