INVESTIGATING THE DEGRADATION OF PERFLUOROOCTANOIC ACID (PFOA) IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT SLUDGE USING ACIDIMICROBIUM SP. STRAIN A6 AND THE FEAMMOX PROCESS

Abstract

This study investigated the usage of Acidimicrobium sp. Strain A6 and the Feammox Process in the degradation of Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in sludge present in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals that have been recognized for their persistent nature and widespread within the environment. These environmental contaminators have posed a risk to society, finding themselves in food and causing health problems for animals and human beings. Their persistent nature means that they pose a serious risk to future generations who may face public health issues. This thesis provided a detailed overview of the preliminary findings, adopted methodology, and key implications. The main goal is to outline the integration between the Feammox process and Acidimicrobium sp. Strain A6 in PFAS bioremediation in biosolids. The main goal of the research is to introduce an innovative solution for the bioremediation of PFAS in biosolids. Findings from this thesis show that Acidimicrobium sp. Strain A6 can grow and be propagated in filter cake treatments amended with a ferric iron source and degrade PFAS. Results have also shown that treating the ferric iron source with a polyacrylic acid enhances the Feammox activity, including the growth of Acidimicrobium sp. Strain A6 and PFAS degradation, indicating directions for further improvements of this process.