A Review of the International Management Practice and Treatment Technology of Solid Waste Containing Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid

Abstract

Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and its salts were listed as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the Stockholm Convention to restrict their worldwide usage. PFOS released from dumped solid waste may pose risks to humans and the environment. Great efforts have been made to identify, manage, and dispose of PFOS-containing solid wastes. Herein, we reviewed the relevant literature and regulations to give a complete view of international management practices and treatment technologies for PFOS-containing solid wastes. First, the occurrence and fate of PFOS in solid waste and in the environment, as well as the development of detection methods for PFOS in solid wastes are introduced. Then, relevant regulations from different countries and regions are reviewed and compared. Specific and feasible PFOS control regulations and standards must be developed based on the economic and pollution situations. Traditional disposal technologies such as incineration and landfill are still the mainstream methods for PFOS-containing solid wastes. However, several innovative and promising technologies, including pyrolysis, plasma, cement kiln co-treatment, and smoldering, have raised concern. The disposal efficiency, cost efficiency, and environmental impact of different technologies remain uncertain and deserve greater consideration. In addition, alternative research is briefly introduced. Based on the international experience, prospects for enhancing disposal technology research, preventing secondary pollution during disposal, and proactively developing safe alternatives are made for a summary.