Introduction
Analyzing PFAS contamination through case studies has emerged as a crucial tool for environmental safety evaluations, particularly in industrial zones where chemical pollutants pose significant risks. As persistent organic contaminants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are increasingly detected in soil, groundwater, and surface water near manufacturing sites.
This blog, developed by the experts at ResolveMass Laboratories Inc., examine contamination case study in an industrial facility, highlighting the identification process, technical difficulties, and successful remediation approaches. By leveraging our industry-leading PFAS testing services (ResolveMass PFAS Testing), we provide environmental scientists, consultants, and industrial stakeholders through real-time data, regulatory insights, and actionable protocols.
What is PFAS Contamination?
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used widely since the 1940s in products such as firefighting foams, water repellents, lubricants, and industrial processes. Due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, they resist degradation and accumulate over time in the environment and human body.
A well-documented PFAS contamination case study reveals how these persistent pollutants infiltrate soil and water systems, emphasizing the need for proactive industrial monitoring.
Why Focus on Industrial Sites?
Many industrial sites are hotspots for PFAS discharge due to historic use of firefighting foam (AFFF), coating materials, and various manufacturing operations. A typical PFAS contamination case study often traces pollutants from production floors to subsurface soils and aquifers.
Case Study Overview: Industrial Site in Ontario, Canada
ResolveMass Laboratories Inc. conducted a PFAS contamination case study at an industrial manufacturing facility located in Ontario. The site had over five decades of production history, primarily involving plating, coating, and heavy metal fabrication processes.
Key Objectives
- Determine PFAS presence in soil and groundwater.
- Quantify contamination levels and spatial distribution.
- Assess risk to adjacent ecosystems and drinking water sources.
- Provide actionable remediation strategies.
Site Investigation and Methodology
Step 1: Historical Review and Desktop Analysis
We began by reviewing site operation logs, MSDS sheets, and archived environmental reports. Historical records indicated regular use of AFFF in fire drills and fluorochemical coatings.
Step 2: Sample Collection
- 24 soil samples at 2–10 ft depth
- 12 groundwater wells sampled quarterly for 1 year
- Surface water from an adjacent stream analyzed for PFAS migration
Step 3: Analytical Testing
All samples were analyzed at our certified ResolveMass PFAS Testing Laboratory using LC-MS/MS technology, following EPA Method 533 and 537.1.
Findings
Concentration Levels
- PFOS: Up to 280 ng/L in groundwater (Ontario limit: 70 ng/L)
- PFOA: Detected up to 190 ng/L
- PFHxS and PFNA: Present above guideline levels in 70% of wells
Spatial Spread
- PFAS plume migrated approximately 800m downstream
- Soil contamination was highest near the AFFF storage tanks
Environmental Impact
- Elevated PFAS in local stream impacted aquatic fauna
- PFOS found in fish tissues exceeding 5 ng/g wet weight
Human Health Risk
- Private wells within 1km radius were tested and 2 showed PFAS levels exceeding provincial guidelines
Remediation Approach
Immediate Actions
- Public advisory issued for groundwater use
- Alternative drinking water supply for site operators
Long-Term Strategy
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters installed
- Soil excavation and incineration of hotspots
- Continuous monitoring via our PFAS testing services
Lessons from This PFAS Contamination Case Study
This PFAS contamination case study emphasized the importance of early detection, especially in aging industrial properties. Without proactive testing, contamination can spread silently over decades.
Our experience proves that comprehensive site assessment, backed by advanced laboratory analytics, is key to environmental risk mitigation. Partner with ResolveMass to safeguard your operations and public health.
How ResolveMass Laboratories Inc. Ensures EEAT Compliance
- Experience: Decades of testing in complex industrial sites.
- Expertise: Team of certified environmental scientists and toxicologists.
- Authoritativeness: Trusted by provincial regulators and industry leaders.
- Trustworthiness: Transparent, validated, and reproducible data shared with clients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are PFAS and why are they harmful?
PFAS are synthetic, non-degradable chemicals linked to cancer, immune disorders, and developmental issues due to their bioaccumulative nature.
2. How do industrial sites contribute to PFAS contamination?
Industrial sites use PFAS in processes like coating, plating, and firefighting. Over time, these chemicals seep into soil and water systems, creating persistent contamination.
3. How can PFAS be detected in groundwater?
ResolveMass uses advanced liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to detect trace amounts of PFAS in water, with high precision and regulatory compliance.
4. What are acceptable PFAS levels in Canada?
Health Canada recommends PFOS and PFOA in drinking water to be below 70 ng/L. Provincial guidelines may vary and be more stringent.
5. What are the common remediation methods for PFAS?
Techniques include activated carbon filtration, ion exchange, and high-temperature incineration of contaminated soil.
6. What does a PFAS contamination case study involve?
A full PFAS contamination case study includes site investigation, sampling, laboratory analysis, risk assessment, and remediation planning.
7. Can PFAS migrate from industrial to residential areas?
Yes, PFAS can migrate through groundwater plumes and contaminate nearby drinking water sources.
8. How long do PFAS stay in the environment?
They are called “forever chemicals” because they do break down naturally for decades.
9. What industries are at high risk for PFAS contamination?
Firefighting training facilities, textile and metal processing, chemical plants, and airports face the highest risks.
10. Why choose ResolveMass for PFAS testing?
we offer end-to-end PFAS analysis with regulatory compliance, expert interpretation, and custom solutions for your site.
Conclusion
This detailed PFAS contamination case study demonstrates the silent risks posed by industrial activities and the importance of proactive site assessment. At ResolveMass Laboratories Inc., we combine scientific rigor with real-world field experience to deliver reliable PFAS testing and contamination control services. Let our case studies guide your next steps in environmental compliance and public safety. To learn more, visit our PFAS testing page.
Contact Us
Have questions or need PFAS testing for your site? Reach out via our Contact Page.
ResolveMass Laboratories Inc.: Experience, Expertise, and Trust You Can Count On
ResolveMass Laboratories Inc. is a leading name in nitrosamine testing across the United States and Canada. With over a decade of experience, our PhD-level scientists specialize in Mass Spectrometry and nitrosamine impurity chemistry. We offer complete in-house solutions, including risk assessment, confirmatory analysis, regulatory documentation, and expert consultation. As one of the few Canadian CROs, we also provide custom synthesis of rare nitrosamine impurities unavailable elsewhere. Our commitment to advanced technology and regulatory compliance ensures accurate results and trusted partnerships. Choose ResolveMass Laboratories for precise and transparent nitrosamine testing services.
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References
- Fenton, S. E., Ducatman, A., Boobis, A., DeWitt, J. C., Lau, C., Ng, C., Smith, J. S., & Roberts, S. M. (2021). Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance toxicity and human health review: Current state of knowledge and strategies for informing future research. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 40(3), 606–630. https://doi.org/10.1002/etc.4890
- Cordner, A., Goldenman, G., Birnbaum, L. S., Brown, P., Miller, M. F., Mueller, R., Patton, S., Salvatore, D. H., & Trasande, L. (2021). The true cost of PFAS and the benefits of acting now. Environmental Science & Technology, 55(14), 9630–9633. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.1c03565
