Clean or Replace? Decontaminating PFAS from Firefighting Equipment and Hangars Webinar
About the Webinar
Originally presented October 12, 2022
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been found to be bio-persistent in the environment, as well as cause adverse effects in humans and animals. Some of the main sources of PFAS include manufacturing and processing facilities, airports, and military installations that use firefighting foams, such as aqueous film forming foam (AFFF).
Many AFFF delivery systems in aircraft hangars and firefighting vehicles may require thorough cleaning to avoid ongoing environmental impacts from residual PFAS within those systems. Though replacement AFFF formulations are being introduced, existing residuals and legacy contamination within these delivery systems are likely to continue to discharge PFAS.
This project provides information to refine existing cleanup guidance for firefighting systems, specifically hangar systems and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicles impacted by PFAS. This assists the development of a standardized cleanup framework based on a toolbox of options utilizable across DOD and the civilian aviation firefighting community, which could potentially lead to substantial cost savings.
About the Presenter
Matthew Magnuson is a research Chemist for EPA's Homeland Security Research Program/Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, and has been with EPA in Cincinnati, Ohio since 1996. He received his Ph.D. in chemistry in 1994 from the University of Oklahoma (Norman), and is author of over 50 peer reviewed publications in areas including homeland security, analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and forensic analysis. He is currently involved in homeland security programs related to analysis and environmental fate of chemical, biological, and radiological (CBR) contaminants. A major focus of his work is management and treatment of large volumes of CBR contaminated water and wastewater. Collaborations include U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and National Institutes of Justice.
