CFPUA releases preliminary data from Sweeney pilot test

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — CFPUA has received data from the ongoing pilot test at Sweeney Water Treatment Plant.

The pilot test, consisting of Granular Activated Carbon and Ion Exchange technologies, is measuring the effectiveness of new treatment technologies in removing per-fluorinated compounds from the water.

Preliminary data shows that, after one month, small traces of GenX could be detected beyond the Granular Activated Carbon filtration unit. GenX has not yet been detected in water samples treated by the Ion Exchange units.

CFPUA says staff are working with consultants at Black & Veatch to understand the potential causes of this new data from the GAC test, and to determine the next steps forward in the testing process. However, CFPUA says more data is needed before final conclusions can be made.

CFPUA says the time frame for breakthrough is important to the testing process because it gives staff an idea of how often filter materials would need to be replaced if the technology were to be permanently installed at the plant. The replacement rate has an impact on project design and cost. Once the testing process is complete, CFPUA staff will work with Black & Veatch to analyze all of the pilot test data and make a recommendation for the best path forward.