Bench-scale testing to guide treatment
Bench-scale studies helped to identify granular activated carbon (GAC) as a solution for removing the compounds of concern.
Innovative PFAS treatment for safe and reliable drinking water in a Massachusetts community
After PFAS, PFOA and PFOS were found in Westfield’s wells above EPA advisory levels, the city partnered with CDM Smith to identify the most effective treatment. Bench-scale testing guided the design of a granular activated carbon system, ensuring efficient contaminant removal and safe water for over 41,000 residents.
A state-of-the-art treatment plant
The new facility features GAC treatment, sodium hypochlorite and phosphate feed systems, and an office for sampling provisions.
Construction oversight and support
The team ensured smooth plant startup, monitoring installation and operational readiness to deliver compliant drinking water.
Enabling proactive public health protection
Westfield acted before formal PFAS regulations, safeguarding residents and setting the bar for addressing future contaminants.
Westfield’s proactive approach demonstrates that careful evaluation is key to addressing PFAS. Bench-scale testing provided certainty and guided design choices, resulting in a GAC-based facility that safely treats affected wells. The Owen District Road plant now ensures reliable water for the community while showcasing a model for emerging contaminant management. “Bench-scale testing allows us to understand much more about a given situation and how best to treat it,” says PFAS expert Charles Schaefer.
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