CRC CARE has developed an amine modified clay sorbent capable of cleaning up toxic contaminants such as perflurorchemicals from aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) and those on the Stockholm Convention list. As part of the complete on-site assessment and remediation service known as matCARETM, this sorbent immobilises contaminants within wastewater and soil and helps restore the commercial value of contaminated sites.
The approach taken for the remediation of soil is different to that of water. Each site is assessed and a site specific remediation plan implemented for optimal results. Water is returned safe for re-use and soil is restored into productive real estate.
Perflurorchemicals (PFCs) are commonly used to improve the ability of fire-fighting foam to smother fire. These AFFFs have been used at thousands of fire training facilities worldwide over the past century, as well as in the production of fabrics, leather, paper products, food packaging and insecticides.
However, PFCs pose a serious problem. They are potentially harmful to human health and the environment. When washed away from surfaces and disposed of in landfill, PFCs PFOA and PFOS contaminate soil and water. PFCs are stable chemicals that do not change or break down readily in the environment or in living things. The solution is remediation, and matCARETM offers a full assessment and remediation service that takes places entirely at the contaminated site.
CRC CARE scientists arrive with a mobile assessment and remediation facility and take care of contamination issues right there and then.
The clay sorbent used in matCARETM has the capacity to successfully immobilise 50% more PFOS and PFOA than traditional technologies, with field trials proving that it is more effective than activated carbon and biochar.
matCARETM has been used to successfully remediate four AFFF-contaminated sites for the Department of Defence. Read the CRC CARE case study here.
“CRC CARE fulfilled a critical need by developing best practice solutions to Defence’s AFFF management issues. Their cost-effective and comprehensive risk-based approach – from assessment through to remediation, using their industry-leading matCARE™ technology – helped Defence ensure a healthy and safe environment at sites where AFFF had previously posed a challenge.”
- Terry Weston, Former Assistant Secretary Environment and Engineering, Department of Defence
For more information and to discuss how CRC CARE can help you assess and remediate AFFF-contaminated soil and wastewater visit our website or contact Narasimha Somasundara at Narasimha.GS@crccare.com or +61 (0)4167 51355.
