Formatted Title
Artificial Intelligence Investigation of PFAS In Situ Remediation
Background/Objectives
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a new tool that can facilitate research and development. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been discovered in nearly all aspects of current lifestyles. As the identification and toxicological phases of research continue, finding remedies for PFAS found in soils and groundwater becomes important. AI was used to discover significant research underway to develop and implement innovative in situ remediation solutions to tackle PFAS pollution. This presentation focuses on the operation of AI and the resulting breakthrough techniques that are shaping the future of PFAS in situ remediation.
Approach/Activities
With the goal of providing insights into potential remediation strategies for PFAS AI was employed. AI requires a clear description of the task, and many interactions are required to ensure a complete investigation. AI was able to discover research in some well-known alternative but also provide insights such as difficulties in implementation. Below is a summary of potential in situ remedial strategies;
In situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) is a powerful method for treating PFAS-contaminated groundwater. Questions remain about the toxicity of the breakdown products and research continues to address this issue. Typically to reach very low concentrations implementing bioremediation is needed following ISCO. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) combine the power of multiple oxidants and catalysts to destroy PFAS contaminants.
Adsorption techniques like granular activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange (IX) have shown great promise for in situ application acting as a plume stabilizer. Research is being conducted to determine the types of CAC and IX are most effective. Clay minerals, such as kaolinite and montmorillonite, are promising adsorbents for PFAS removal due to high affinity to contaminants, widespread availability, low cost and eco-friendly properties. Humic substance and surfaces are a potential environmental sink for the adsorption and retention of PFAS. The hydrophobic nature of the pyrophyllite surface makes the material well suited for the sorption of medium- and long-tail PFAS moieties. Polymer sorbents were found to be efficient in removal of multiple PFAS from contaminated waters. Regeneration of the sorbent for repeated use can provide significant cost savings.
Bioremediation and bioaugmentation shows potential as a natural way to break down PFAS. Researchers have recently discovered that certain naturally occurring microbial communities and enzymes have the ability to break down PFAS chemicals, particularly perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluoro octane sulfonate (PFOS).
Plant uptake and translocation studies have shown that certain plant species are capable of taking up PFAS from the soil and translocating them to aboveground tissues. The rhizosphere—the narrow zone of soil surrounding plant roots—plays a critical role in plant-pollutant interactions.
Results/Lessons Learned
AI depends on available information with can be misleading or limited. Quality control is a important aspect of any AI project. PFOS and PFAS compounds are very difficult to remove from the environment. AI was able to discover research which provided great insights on potential technologies, some of which may not have been found without AI.