Communities at Risk: PFAS Contamination Near Industrial Sites and Separation Strategies

Abstract

This review examines the growing challenge of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in small communities located near chemical production facilities, with particular attention to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The case
of Parkersburg, West Virginia highlights the scale of the problem, where adverse health outcomes and community exposure 
culminated in over USD $670 million in remediation and legal settlements. To mitigate these risks, multiple separation 
technologies have been evaluated, including granular activated carbon (GAC), ion exchange resins, and high-pressure 
membrane processes such as reverse osmosis and nanofiltration. Emerging nanomaterials are also being investigated for their high selectivity and adsorption capacity. However, significant challenges remain in addressing short-chain PFAS, scaling up pilot processes, managing energy and cost demands, and preventing harmful treatment by-products. Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) into monitoring and optimisation frameworks offers opportunities to improve system efficiency and predictive maintenance. Beyond technical considerations, PFAS remediation has far-reaching environmental, societal and economic implications, from reducing long-term health burdens to preventing the continued degradation of local water systems. Additionally, effective PFAS remediation advances progress toward several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).