BioLargo, Inc. has announced a significant milestone with its Aqueous Electrostatic Concentrator (AEC) having treated more than two million gallons of PFAS-contaminated water at a municipal drinking water facility in Lake Stockholm, New Jersey. This achievement comes just over six months after the system was installed in January 2026.
The AEC has demonstrated consistent performance in removing PFAS chemicals from drinking water, achieving results that comply with and often exceed the standards set by both the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This notable performance positions the Lake Stockholm installation as a key reference point for potential customers evaluating the technology for their own systems.
In contrast to traditional PFAS remediation methods, the AEC reduces the volume of contaminated waste produced. This efficiency leads to lower hazardous waste disposal costs for Lake Stockholm. The system operates without the need for granular activated carbon (GAC) or single-use ion exchange resins, which are commonly used in conventional approaches.
Ongoing monitoring by the NJDEP and U.S. EPA is established under a 12-month program, ensuring the AEC's continued compliance with relevant regulations. Dennis P. Calvert, President and CEO of BioLargo, emphasized that the successful operation of the AEC poses critical questions about future deployments rather than its effectiveness. The technology's capability to address other sources of PFAS contamination, such as industrial wastewater and landfill leachate, is also being explored.
As BioLargo continues to explore the commercial application of the AEC, a recent memorandum of understanding with global water treatment leader Aquatech aims to enhance PFAS treatment solutions by leveraging each company's technological strengths.
BioLargo's AEC has treated over two million gallons of PFAS-contaminated water at Lake Stockholm, New Jersey, consistently removing PFAS chemicals to levels below applicable New Jersey and U.S. EPA standards. However, the long-term effectiveness and operational costs must continue to be evaluated.
The AEC reportedly achieves over 99% PFAS removal while generating less waste compared to conventional methods like granular activated carbon. Nonetheless, the cost of implementing AEC technology versus these traditional methods requires careful consideration.
PFAS, referred to as 'forever chemicals,' have been linked to various health issues, including certain cancers and immune system weaknesses. Despite these risks being documented, the extent of impact can vary across different populations.
The AEC's performance is monitored by both the NJDEP and U.S. EPA under a 12-month program. While this oversight aims to ensure compliance, results from this monitoring will need ongoing scrutiny to confirm long-term effectiveness.
BioLargo aims to expand the deployment of its AEC technology beyond municipal drinking water to industrial wastewater and other PFAS-related challenges. The pace and success of such expansions will depend on various market and regulatory factors.
BioLargo faces several risks, including competition in the market, economic conditions impacting consumer purchasing, and potential difficulties in managing product transitions and stimulating demand. These challenges could significantly influence the company's growth trajectory.
BioLargo's AEC has been developed as part of its broader mission to address environmental challenges, supported by partnerships and funding strategies aimed at accelerating technology deployment. However, financial sustainability will depend on market acceptance and regulatory compliance.
The partnership with Aquatech aims to enhance PFAS treatment solutions by integrating AEC technology with Aquatech's capabilities. While this collaboration presents opportunities for growth, it will require effective coordination to deliver results.