PFAS Containment: Why Liners Are Now More Important Than Ever

As awareness of "forever chemicals" grows, the environmental and regulatory landscape is changing fast. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—better known as PFAS—have been used for decades in everything from firefighting foams to food packaging. But today, these synthetic compounds are under intense scrutiny for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. This shift is driving a new urgency for effective containment solutions, and at the heart of that effort is one critical technology: liners.

Understanding the PFAS Problem

PFAS chemicals are highly resistant to degradation, which means they accumulate in water, soil, and even human bodies over time. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a variety of health problems, including cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system impacts. With detection capabilities improving and concern mounting, regulatory bodies at all levels—from the EPA to local governments—are establishing stricter guidelines for PFAS levels in water and soil.

The result? Municipalities, manufacturers, and waste management operators are under increasing pressure to isolate, contain, and remediate PFAS-laden materials.

Why Liners Matter Now More Than Ever

Liners—especially geomembranes—are becoming essential tools in the fight against PFAS contamination. Whether used in landfills, wastewater treatment plants, or industrial containment systems, liners offer a physical barrier that prevents PFAS from leaching into surrounding environments.

Here’s why they’re indispensable:

• Chemical Resistance: Not all liners are created equal. High-performance geomembranes, such as those made with HDPE or fluoropolymer-enhanced materials, offer superior resistance to PFAS compounds compared to traditional containment methods.

• Regulatory Compliance: As the EPA rolls out new drinking water standards and site remediation requirements, companies and municipalities need proven containment systems to meet legal thresholds—and avoid costly penalties.

• Groundwater Protection: Once PFAS infiltrate groundwater, cleanup becomes far more complex and expensive. Properly installed liners create a frontline defense, helping to protect water tables from contamination.

• Future-Proofing: Investing in PFAS-resistant liner systems now ensures long-term containment, reducing the risk of future liability and aligning with evolving environmental standards.

EPI’s Commitment to Containment Excellence

At EPI, we’ve been engineering liner solutions for decades—and we’re on the frontlines of the PFAS challenge. From advising clients on material selection to delivering precise fabrication and installation, we help build containment systems that are both compliant and cost-effective.

Our team understands that effective PFAS management requires more than just a product. It demands a partner who knows the science, the regulations, and the field-tested techniques that ensure containment success.

Looking Ahead

PFAS regulations are tightening, and expectations are rising. Whether you’re managing a landfill, overseeing an industrial site, or operating a wastewater facility, liners are no longer optional, they're essential.

As the push for cleaner water and safer communities accelerates, containment systems must rise to the challenge. At EPI, we’re ready—with the materials, expertise, and innovation needed to make a lasting difference.

Let's build a cleaner future, one liner at a time.