Using GAC Filtration to Transform Water Treatment and Combat PFAS Contamination

Plainfield Charter Township

The Story

In 2017, PFAS contamination was discovered in the private wells of many residents in Plainfield and Algoma Townships, prompting a collaborative response to provide safe municipal water. Wolverine Worldwide tested wells and supplied bottled water and filtration systems to affected households, while local leaders and engineers devised a solution to address the contamination.

A pilot study was initiated to explore the effectiveness of modifying existing rapid sand filters at the water treatment plant with granular activated carbon (GAC). Funded by a $750,000 grant from the State of Michigan, the study tested different filter configurations to optimize PFAS removal. The initial results were promising, with the modified filters successfully meeting water treatment standards and eliminating PFAS.

The project involved replacing the traditional filter media with GAC, modifying filter bottoms to accommodate a deeper bed of GAC, and raising the piping. Completed in Fall 2018, the pilot phase upgraded five filter beds to handle up to 9 million gallons per day (mgd). Further upgrades increased the capacity to 12 mgd, meeting peak summer demands. Additional filters were modified in subsequent years, achieving a total capacity of 16 mgd.

The successful pilot study provided a model for addressing PFAS contamination and set a precedent for future municipal water treatment projects.

Our Role

  • Water System Study
  • Process Engineering

Contact

Mark Prein, PE
Senior Project Manager
616-364-8491

Funding

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)

Awards

Engineering Honorable Conceptor, American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan, 2020

The People’s Choice, American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan, 2020

 

“Having our GAC pilot study recognized by engineering firms statewide is a tribute to all the hard work put in by Prein&Newhof as well as our water treatment plant staff. Utilizing GAC treatment in the way we did, specifically for PFAS removal, was the first-of-its-kind usage in the state. We are thankful for the collaboration we had with the state of Michigan to make it happen.”

– Rick Solle, Plainfield Township Director of Public Services

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