Breaking the Forever Cycle: PFAS Destruction & EPA Methodologies
Dr. David Hanigan discusses his work on PFAS destruction, focusing on the research featured in the YouTube interview with Organomation's General Manager, David Oliva. The video delves into the challenges of eliminating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals," and discusses the use of EPA Method 1633 for accurate analysis.
About Dr. David Hanigan
Dr. David Hanigan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno. His academic and professional journey is distinguished by his expertise in water quality engineering, with a specific focus on emerging contaminants such as PFAS and their impact on environmental and human health. Dr. Hanigan's research integrates innovative treatment methods with fundamental environmental chemistry, particularly in identifying and eliminating contaminants in air and water systems.
His work has received significant recognition, including the prestigious NSF CAREER Award, which supports his contributions to developing sustainable solutions for treating water contaminants. Dr. Hanigan’s commitment to educating the next generation of engineers extends to both graduate and undergraduate programs at UNR, where he teaches courses in environmental engineering and water quality.
For more information on Dr. Hanigan’s academic background and ongoing projects, visit his UNR profile.
Understanding PFAS and EPA Method 1633
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used in a variety of industries and consumer products, including non-stick cookware, waterproof fabrics, and firefighting foams. These chemicals are highly resistant to degradation, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals." Due to their persistence, they accumulate in the environment and human body, posing serious health risks such as cancer, liver damage, and developmental issues.
Dr. Hanigan’s research focuses on breaking the forever cycle of PFAS contamination by developing effective thermal destruction techniques. Unlike some methods that may only transform PFAS into other toxic compounds, thermal destruction offers the potential for complete eradication. However, ensuring that no new volatile PFAS forms are created in the process remains a critical challenge.
In the interview, Dr. Hanigan also highlights the role of EPA Method 1633, a standardized protocol developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the analysis of PFAS in various environmental matrices, including water, soil, and tissue samples. Method 1633 uses advanced analytical techniques, such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), to identify and quantify 40 different PFAS compounds. This method is crucial for accurate detection and regulatory compliance as it provides reliable data for environmental monitoring and remediation efforts.
PFAS Destruction Research and Its Impact
Dr. Hanigan’s work aligns with global efforts to mitigate the spread of PFAS in ecosystems and protect public health. By advancing technologies for PFAS destruction and contributing to the refinement of analytical methods like EPA 1633, his research offers potential pathways for improving air and water quality. The collaboration between environmental engineers and agencies like the EPA is essential for developing more effective regulations and treatment systems, ultimately reducing the presence of these hazardous chemicals.
To learn more about PFAS destruction and environmental engineering innovations, watch the full interview above!