PFAS

PFAS – the forever chemicals that threaten the environment

PFAS, often called ‘forever chemicals’, are a growing environmental challenge. At Sortera we actively work with advanced remediation techniques and innovative solutions to meet these challenges. Together with our customers, we are step by step working towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.

What are PFAS?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, are a group of human-made chemicals known for their water, grease and dirt-repellent properties. They are used in many different products – from fire-fighting foam and functional clothing to cosmetics and frying pans.

Their chemical stability means that they do not break down naturally, which has earned them the nickname ‘forever chemicals’. Today, there are around 15,000 PFAS substances, and several of them are linked to health risks such as cancer, low birth weight in newborns, effects on the immune system and increased cholesterol levels.

Where are PFAS found?

PFAS can be found in the environment in everything from animals and humans to water and soil. In Sweden, we mainly ingest low quantities of PFAS through our food and in indoor environments, but certain areas are particularly exposed. For example, drinking water near firefighting training sites has been shown to have high levels of PFAS.

PFAS are spread through wastewater, the industrial production of dirt and water-repellent materials and landfills. PFAS can infiltrate the soil, contaminate groundwater and spread further in the ecosystem.

How does Sortera work with PFAS remediation?

Purifying water and soil from PFAS is one of the greatest technical challenges in environmental work. For soil or water to be considered free from PFAS, a remediation rate of 99.998 percent is required – a level that places extreme demands on precision and technology.

At Sortera, we use established and advanced techniques such as:

Surface-Activated Foam Fractionation, SAFF: A technique that separates PFAS from water.
Filtration: To capture and remove PFAS from contaminated areas.
In-situ techniques: Where the contaminants are treated directly in the ground.

We combine new technologies with our practical experience and continuously develop our methods to meet the high demands of PFAS remediation. Through preventive measures such as pumps and online monitoring, we ensure smooth and efficient processes.

A shared responsibility for the future

With 24/7 availability and close collaboration with our customers, we work to reduce the spread of PFAS and contribute to a more circular future. At Sortera, we are proud to be part of the solution to one of the greatest environmental challenges of our time.