Kinetic model of PFAS removal by semi-batch foam fractionation and validation by experimental data for K-PFOS

Adsorptive bubble separation techniques such as foam fractionation have recently been applied for the extraction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from waters at both laboratory and operational scales. However, few authors have developed mathematical models of their removal of PFAS. This study presents a theoretical framework for the kinetics of PFAS removal from fresh and monovalent saline waters by a semi-batch foam fractionation process, by the mechanisms of adsorption, entrainment and volatilization, as a function of pertinent parameters including PFAS air-water adsorption, bubble radius, electrolyte concentration and ionic strength, PFAS volatility, and flow and geometric parameters. The freshwater model is validated for the removal of potassium perfluorooctane sulfonate (K-PFOS) using published experimental data (Meng, P. et al., Chemosphere, 2018, 203, 263-270). The proposed models provide quantitative tools for process design and the optimization of individual PFAS removal by semi-batch adsorptive bubble separation techniques such as foam fractionation.

Automated summary

Adsorptive bubble separation techniques, such as foam fractionation, are being used to extract per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water. However, there is a lack of mathematical models for their removal. This study presents a theoretical framework for the kinetics of PFAS removal using a semi-batch foam fractionation process, considering factors such as adsorption, entrainment, and volatilization. The proposed models provide quantitative tools for process design and optimization of PFAS removal.