Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are among the most persistent contaminants in water. Often called ‘forever chemicals,’ they are used in firefighting foams, textiles, food packaging, electronics, and industrial applications. PFAS exposure has been linked to cancer, immune problems, and other health issues.
As regulators in the US and EU tighten drinking water and wastewater limits, utilities face the dual challenge of compliance and cost efficiency. Activated carbon has proven to be one of the most effective solutions. Norit, with over 100 years of experience, leads the field with granular activated carbon (GAC), powdered activated carbon (PAC), and thermal reactivation services.
Global PFAS Regulations
US Regulations
The EPA set enforceable limits in 2024, including 4 ng/L for PFOA and PFOS and 10 ng/L for PFHxS, PFNA, and GenX. Many states have stricter thresholds. The EPA also provides funding to help utilities adopt treatment technologies like GAC and reactivation.
EU Regulations
The EU limits the total of all PFAS to 500 ng/L and 100 ng/L for a targeted group of 20 PFAS. Some member states, including Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, have even stricter local limits. By 2045, large wastewater facilities must install advanced treatment systems, increasing demand for reactivatable carbons.
How Activated Carbon Removes PFAS
Norit’s research shows three key factors affect PFAS adsorption:
- PFAS properties: Long-chain PFAS, like PFOS, are hydrophobic and easier to adsorb. Short-chain PFAS like GenX are more soluble and challenging. Functional groups also affect adsorption.
- Carbon properties: Optimal mesopores, hydrophobic surfaces, particle size, and positive surface charges enhance PFAS capture, especially for short-chain species.
- Water composition: Natural organic matter and competing ions can reduce adsorption. Testing under real water conditions ensures performance.
No single carbon works for all situations. Norit evaluates water samples to select the best carbon type for each source.
Norit Solutions
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)
Norit’s GAC delivers consistent PFAS removal across a range of water conditions. Pilot studies show high adsorption efficiency and strong performance in waters with high organic content.
Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC)
PAC works well for short-term or seasonal PFAS events. Its fine particles allow rapid adsorption and can complement batch treatments or filtration systems.
Thermal Reactivation
Reactivation destroys PFAS in spent GAC while restoring its adsorption capacity. The process uses high temperatures and afterburners to decompose contaminants. Reactivation reduces lifecycle costs by 20–40% and supports a circular economy by avoiding landfill disposal.
PFAS Destruction Demonstrated at Scale
At its Pryor, Oklahoma, facility, Norit tested 71,000 kg of PFAS-laden spent carbon. Key outcomes included:
- 99.98% PFAS destruction
- Reactivated carbon matches virgin GAC performance
- Safe emissions with environmental monitoring showing no impact
- High process reliability with efficient kiln and afterburner operation
This trial proves that large-scale PFAS destruction is achievable while returning carbon to service.
Research, Pilot Testing, and Compliance
Norit’s R&D teams continue to study PFAS adsorption and regulatory compliance. They conduct pilot testing, optimize carbon formulations, and share knowledge through publications and water conferences. This ensures utilities are ready for tighter PFAS limits.
Sustainability and the Circular Economy
Without reactivation, spent carbons are often landfilled or incinerated. Norit’s closed-loop approach reduces waste, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and cuts costs. Reactivated carbon can be reused multiple times while safely destroying PFAS.
Conclusion
As global PFAS regulations tighten, utilities need solutions that combine performance, sustainability, and cost efficiency. Norit provides GAC, PAC, and reactivation solutions to address the full PFAS lifecycle. With expertise across the US and EU, Norit helps utilities manage PFAS safely while advancing a circular, sustainable future.
