Phil Farina

Optimizing PFAS Remediation Strategies through Rapid Small-Scale Column Tests 

Phil Farina, Midwest Business Development Manager, Clear Creek System

The widespread contamination of water sources by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) presents a pressing environmental challenge, demanding innovative and efficient remediation approaches. This presentation introduces Rapid Small-Scale Column Tests (RSSCTs) as a powerful tool for evaluating and optimizing PFAS treatment media and strategies.     We will explore how RSSCTs offer a streamlined alternative to traditional pilot-scale testing, allowing for rapid assessment of various adsorbent media including granular activated carbon, ion exchange resins, FluoroSorb organoclay, and emerging novel materials. The presentation will outline the key principles of RSSCT design and operation, emphasizing how these tests maintain scalability to full-size systems while significantly reducing time and resource requirements.     Our discussion will cover the critical parameters evaluated through RSSCTs, such as PFAS removal efficiency, breakthrough curves, and media-specific adsorption capacities. We'll demonstrate how these tests enable simultaneous comparison of multiple media types under controlled conditions, facilitating data-driven selection of the most effective treatment solutions for specific PFAS profiles.     Furthermore, we'll address the practical implications of RSSCT results, including their role in predicting full-scale system performance, estimating media lifespan, and optimizing treatment system design. The presentation will also touch on the limitations of RSSCTs and the importance of integrating their results with other water quality assessments.     By showcasing real-world applications and case studies, we aim to illustrate how RSSCTs can significantly enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of PFAS remediation efforts. Attendees will gain insights into leveraging this valuable tool to make informed decisions in addressing one of today's most challenging water contamination issues. 

Phil Farina received his education in New Jersey where he earned a BS in Biology; a BA in Psychology and an MS in Virology at Rutgers University. He then completed an MBA in Chemical Marketing at Fairleigh Dickenson University. He constantly strives to remain on top of new technologies and developments that can be employed in water treatment operations.     Phil currently holds the position of Midwest Business Development Manager for Clear Creek Systems Inc., a full-service water treatment solution provider. For the past 35 years, he has been focused on the development of water treatment technology solutions for the CCR, remediation, and PFAS markets. He has been instrumental in bringing new technical solutions to the water treatment industry.