(110a) PFAS Destruction: In Operando Gas-Phase Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy to Study PFAS Decomposition at Laboratory and Commercial Scale Operation
2025 AIChE Annual Meeting
(110a) PFAS Destruction: In Operando Gas-Phase Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy to Study PFAS Decomposition at Laboratory and Commercial Scale Operation
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are susceptible to thermal decomposition, controlled by factors such as temperature, reaction atmosphere, turbulence, residence time. They may be indirectly controlled by other factors including the presence of co-occurring chemicals and fine (inorganic) particulates, which may introduce catalytic effects. Incomplete combustion may lead to stack emissions of products of incomplete destruction (PIDs).
PFAS measurements are essential. As a specific example, we describe the use of gas-phase Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy during laboratory studies, where reaction products were identified and quantified during reaction under carefully controlled conditions. Further, we describe the adaptation and use of the gas-phase FTIR analysis technique during the treatment of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) concentrates in commercial-scale facilities. Our real-time FTIR analyses have revealed the critical impacts of water and other factors, helping operators optimize their processes toward safe thermal destruction of PFAS.
