LAKE ELMO, Minn. (FOX 9) – The Minnesota Air pollution Management Company introduced on Monday the acquisition of state-of-the-art know-how geared toward eradicating and destroying “ceaselessly chemical compounds” from contaminated water within the surroundings. Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also referred to as PFAS, have been linked to severe well being issues.

State officers say the know-how will probably be deployed within the East Metro the place roughly 174,000 residents’ consuming water has been affected by PFAS contamination. The system is paid for with funds from the 3M settlement, which covers contamination remediation. 

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The know-how will work in two components: injecting outside air into contaminated water utilizing SAFF know-how to show PFAS into foam that may be separated from water, then the focus is transported to a DEFLUORO unit, which breaks down the spine of the PFAS chemical compounds. 

The primary part of groundwater and floor water testing will launch at Tablyn Park in Lake Elmo earlier than transferring to different testing areas over the subsequent two years, the company mentioned. 

“Lake Elmo has been floor zero for PFAS contamination for years,” mentioned Lake Elmo Metropolis Council member Jeff Holtz. “The Metropolis of Lake Elmo is worked up to companion with the MPCA on the pilot research. Tablyn Park affords a singular alternative to check this PFAS destroying know-how on each groundwater and floor water sources. We look ahead to studying extra about the way it could enhance our precious pure assets.”

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Minnesota is reportedly the primary state authorities to accumulate the mix of applied sciences to deal with PFAS contamination. 

“The pilot mission marks the start of a brand new period for PFAS clean-up in Minnesota,” mentioned MPCA Commissioner Katrina Kessler in a ready assertion. “This research will assist us tackle PFAS contamination on the supply and develop long-term options for cleaner water — making certain protected consuming water for Minnesotans. We hope to finally make use of this know-how across the state together with in Larger Minnesota, the place PFAS is a rising concern.”

The SAFF unit is en route from Australia and is anticipated to reach in Minnesota subsequent month. The DELFLUORO unit will probably be staged on the former Washington County landfill location. 

State officers mentioned not one of the water used within the pilot check is linked to the town’s consuming water, which they mentioned, stays protected.