Comparative Lifecycle and Economic Analyses of Emerging PFAS Remediation Technologies for Groundwater and Surface Water in the United States

Authors: Muntaka Is-mail, Ngoye Sedrick Yeih

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37082/IJIRMPS.v14.i1.232918

Short DOI: https://doi.org/hbnscq

Country: United States

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Abstract: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often termed "forever chemicals," pose a growing threat to environmental and human health due to their persistence, resistance to degradation, and widespread contamination in groundwater and surface water. These pollutants are linked to serious health risks, including cancer and endocrine system disruption. Hence their remediation has become a critical priority for water management worldwide. This systematic review aims to synthesize and evaluate emerging PFAS remediation technologies from a comparative perspective, focusing on lifecycle environmental impacts and economic feasibility. Using the PRISMA guidelines, this study identifies and critically analyzes peer-reviewed literature published between 2020 and 2025. The advanced remediation methods reviewed include granular activated carbon (GAC), ion exchange resins (IX), electrochemical oxidation, and polymer-stabilized activated carbon. Key findings highlight significant trade-offs among these technologies: while some approaches like GAC and IX are cost-effective for large-scale deployment, they generate substantial secondary waste. In contrast, emerging methods like electrochemical and plasma-based treatments reduce secondary waste but face scalability challenges due to high energy consumption. Lifecycle assessments reveal that energy demands and material sustainability remain critical bottlenecks. The insights derived from this analysis emphasize the urgent need for integrated remediation strategies that balance effectiveness, cost, and environmental sustainability to meet regulatory standards. Policymakers, technologists, and stakeholders must align efforts to address research gaps, particularly regarding long-term technological feasibility, secondary pollution risks, and region-specific strategies. This review underscores the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration to foster innovation and mitigate the pervasive threat of PFAS contamination.

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Paper Id: 232918

Published On: 2026-02-06

Published In: Volume 14, Issue 1, January-February 2026

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