PFAS in soil is a major problem these days. PFAS are used in many products due to their specific properties (water repellent and high thermal stability). Examples include the Teflon layer in a saucepan, the compound added to fire extinguishing agents and water repellent spray for clothing. The PFAS group of substances has been developed in such a way that it is almost impossible to tackle them biologically, chemically or thermally. Substances that fall within this group of substances are PFOS, PFOA and GenX. The seminar on PFAS that was held on 1 November 2018 focused on the search for practical solutions for now and in the future.
Interactive seminar
In collaboration with the RSK, the Municipality of Haarlemmermeer and Afvalzorg Nederland, HMVT organised this interactive and fascinating seminar about PFAS. Each of the parties involved described from their own perspective the problems and possible solutions surrounding PFAS. The seminar also examined possible problems that could be encountered in practice and how to deal with them as a company or municipality. Together with the participants, the four speakers also looked for possible solutions.
Tackling the problems
Direct exposure to PFAS through, for example, ingestion via groundwater or drinking water can result in health problems. In order to handle the PFAS issue thoroughly it is therefore important that good (technical) solutions can be found. Various different studies have provided lots of information on issues concerning PFAS. The focus of this seminar was on the possibilities in practice. The seminar delved deeper into the practical solutions to resolve this problem.
HMVT provides a solution
Paul Verhaagen represented HMVT as one of the speakers at the seminar. Paul described the new water purification technique that HMVT had introduced in Amsterdam, a technique that enables water containing PFAS/PFOS to be purified. Paul also explained how best to handle a situation if PFAS is the main problem in a soil remediation project, as well as how to set up the remediation in the most effective way. HMVT continues to develop and search for new techniques. We hope that in a year’s time, HMVT will be able to provide even more effective solutions for dealing with the issue of PFAS.
Do you want to know more about PFAS?
For further information about PFAS in the soil or about HMVT, please feel free to contact Paul Verhaagen on +31 (0)6 118 60 806 or call the general number +31 (0)318 624 624.
Presentations?
To see all the presentations that were held, click: Presentation PFAS in de bodem – 1 November 2018.
