PFAS Ion Exchange Breakthrough Time Calculator
Project breakthrough timing for PFAS ion exchange contactors so maintenance teams can schedule change-outs before treated water exceeds compliance triggers.
Engineering planning aid. Validate assumptions with field sampling, regulatory limits, and resin supplier specifications before adjusting treatment schedules.
Examples
- 850 L bed, 45 mg/L usable capacity, 120 µg/L influent, 35 L/min ⇒ Breakthrough at 6.32 days (151.78 hours) after 318,745 L treated (~375.00 bed volumes) and 38.25 g captured.
- 550 L bed, 30 mg/L capacity, 65 µg/L influent, 22 L/min ⇒ Breakthrough at 8.01 days (192.33 hours) after 253,836 L treated (~461.52 bed volumes) and 16.50 g captured.
FAQ
How do I determine usable PFAS capacity?
Start with pilot column data or vendor isotherms, then derate for competing organics, pH swings, and regulatory safety factors so the input reflects real-world performance.
Can I use gallons instead of litres?
Yes. Convert tank and flow measurements to litres before entry (1 gallon = 3.785 L) to keep units consistent with the concentration basis.
Does the tool cover lead/lag vessels?
Model each vessel separately. For lead/lag trains, run the calculator for the lead vessel to predict the switchover interval, then repeat with the lag vessel's residual capacity after rotation.
Additional Information
- Result unit: time reported in days and hours, plus total treated volume, bed volumes, and captured PFAS mass.
- Influent concentration is converted from micrograms per litre to milligrams per litre to maintain consistent mass units.
- The calculator assumes constant flow and capacity; apply a safety factor to the usable capacity input to reflect breakthrough limits (for example, 80% of lab-rated value).