Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have been widely used in various industries since the 1940s due to their unique properties such as heat, water, chemical, and oil resistance. However, their environmental persistence and potential health risks have led to a critical need for effective disposal methods.

The Evolution of PFAS Disposal

The recent focus on more environmentally friendly practices has brought about a shift from the traditional PFAS disposal methods toward more sustainable practices. One such innovative method is waste sequestration via injection wells, a practice seamlessly integrated into VLS's services.

Injection wells involve drilling beneath drinking water aquifers—typically 5,000 to 10,000 feet deep—to sequester liquid waste under multiple impermeable layers of rock. This method permanently sequesters the waste, preventing any negative impacts on surface water or subsurface aquifers.

EPA Regulations and Their Impact on Businesses

As the science around PFAS continues to evolve, so do the regulations governing their disposal. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is actively updating its guidelines to ensure safer, more effective disposal methods. These changes are pushing businesses dealing with PFAS waste streams to align their waste management practices with the evolving regulatory landscape to avoid non-compliance penalties.

VLS: Leading the Way in PFAS Waste Management

As the PFAS disposal landscape continues to evolve, VLS Texas Molecular is at the forefront, providing an unparalleled proposition for businesses dealing with PFAS waste streams. Our comprehensive services encompass every stage—transportation, logistics and disposal—providing a seamless, start-to-finish solution.

What sets us apart is our pioneering use of Class 1 hazardous injection wells for PFAS disposal. As one of the few waste companies utilizing this advanced method, we provide a highly regulated, effective, and environmentally responsible PFAS disposal solution. Our technology ensures significantly lower emissions than traditional methods.

Our Class 1 hazardous injection wells are designed for the disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous wastes into deep, isolated  sand formations, which have optimum permeability properties. The strict regulations surrounding these wells, including EPA's "10,000 Year No Migration Petition," ensure the protection of underground sources of drinking water. This method not only prevents discharges to waterways and drinking water sources but also results in low/no air emissions (CO2, SOx, NOx, HAPs), contributing to a reduced carbon footprint and greater energy efficiency.

Moreover, our Class 1 hazardous injection wells have been recognized as an industry standard, providing safer disposal than virtually all other methods. According to a 2001 EPA report, "Class I Underground Injection wells are safer than virtually all other waste disposal practices"¹

Our approach to PFAS disposal also offers numerous benefits for waste sequestration. There are no PFAS concentration limits, and our adherence to the EPA No Migration Petition provides additional protection. This method meets current and possible future regulations and programs, offering a solution for low-risk clients and non-regulatory drivers.

As we navigate the ongoing evolution of the PFAS and AFFF disposal landscape, VLS Texas Molecular remains committed to offering comprehensive, compliant, and sustainable solutions for your PFAS and AFFF waste management needs. If you are dealing with PFAS or other hazardous wastewater streams, contact VLS Texas Molecular today. Learn more about our services and discover how we can help you navigate the complexities of PFAS to keep your organization compliant.

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