[Pharmwaste] Extra Tests for Pharmaceutical Washwater?

[Ed Gottlieb]

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Hi All,

A pharmaceutical manufacturer wants to truck their wash water to us for treatment.  I seek your guidance regarding substances of concern to get test results for. All the typically required tests had acceptable results.

Is correct that pharmaceuticals can be a significant source of the following? And, if so, what tests should I require and what results would be of concern? Finally, do you happen to know of a laboratory certified in the test method? (I haven't yet asked the lab we use for referrals.)

  1.  Silica. Becomes siloxane (during anaerobic digestion) which must be removed before we burn our biogas. Is ASTM D859 the appropriate test to run?
  2.  PFAS. According to the Association of Metropolitan Sewerage Agencies (AMSA) there is an ongoing review of PFAS testing methods. Because of the review should I not require PFAS testing or ask for EPA Method 8327 or another method?
  3.  Color. Is Method 110.1, 110.2, or 110.3 (as applicable) the appropriate test to run?
  4.  Cationic surfactants. They provided results for EPA Method 5540C which only measures anionic surfactants. Is there a test method for cationic surfactants?
  5.  Anything else?

Your input is appreciated!

Best,
Ed Gottlieb
IAWWTF Pretreatment Coordinator
Ithaca, NY
607-229-3722
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