PFAS removal from a drinking water supply

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have historically been used in a broad range of consumer and commercial products and in the manufacturing of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF). Due to their water solubility PFAS, unlike many other persistent organic chemicals, end up in ground and surface waters and can require treatment. The historical use of AFFF at RAAF Base Tindal has resulted in groundwater contamination of the Tindall aquifer, which is used to supply the Northern Territory Power and Water Corporation's (PWC) Katherine Water Treatment Plant. Groundwater is used to supplement the total water supply of which up to 90% is drawn from the Katherine River. Although limited groundwater is used in the water supply to the Katherine community, contamination of the groundwater potentially impacts the safety of the drinking water supply, which services a population of approximately 11,000 people. Following identification of PFAS contamination in the groundwater source, it was determined that a treatment solution was required for both the immediate and the long term. (author)