PFAS Investigation, Treatment, and Consulting Services

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) include a wide variety of surfactants with unique chemical properties that are persistent and mobile in the environment.  Two common and regulated examples are perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).

For decades, a number of these compounds were used in range of industrial and consumer applications and processes like electroplating, material coating, lubrication, and vapor suppression. Because of their heat, water, and oil resistance, they were also used in cookware and food storage and packaging products, and to provide stain protection and fire retardancy in apparel, carpeting, and upholstery. PFAS are also a major component in aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), used to extinguish gasoline fires and other refined fuel fires.

Types of sites include:

• Various industrial/manufacturing properties
• Former automobile manufacturing sites
• Active plating facilities
• Historic landfill sites
• Former industrial/manufacturing sites in the process of demolition and/or redevelopment that contain pits, vaults, lagoons, and other liquid collection features that require evaluation for PFAS impact.

PM has prepared multiple work plans and sample plans for site characterization and remediation of PFAS contaminated sites in Michigan.  PM’s project team has extensive experience with the collection of samples in various media types for chemical analysis of PFAS in accordance with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) PFAS Sampling Reference Guide.  PM’s project experience includes various projects with multi-regulatory agency guidance/oversight (i.e., various EGLE departments, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), local municipalities, etc.).

PM prepares design specifications for Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) PFAS filtration systems to be installed at sites with PFAS contamination in groundwater, surface water, and waste water. PM installs filtration systems and completes operation and maintenance (O&M) activities to maintain compliance with City compliance orders and/or State/municipal regulations.

As a leader in environmental risk assessment and regulatory compliance, PM Environmental closely monitors the evolving science and policy, and works with governmental regulators, municipal authorities and property owners to stay at the forefront of the complex, rapidly evolving PFAS landscape.