Engineers create comprehensive solution for capturing and eliminating ‘forever chemicals’
Chemical engineers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new treatment system that effectively traps and treats PFAS substances, also known as “forever chemicals,” in water.
PFAS are chemicals commonly found in consumer goods like waterproof clothing but are also harmful pollutants that can cause health issues. The new system combines an activated carbon filter with a special catalyst that breaks down PFAS substances into harmless components.
Unlike other water treatment methods, this system requires less ultraviolet light to work efficiently. It has been proven to remove over 85% of PFOA, a type of PFAS, even in low light conditions.
The versatility of the catalyst suggests its potential use in various settings, including regions with limited sunlight exposure. The team behind the technology believes it could be a cost-effective solution for municipal water systems and industrial cleanups.
A company called ReAct Materials has been established to explore commercial opportunities for this technology. The catalyst can eliminate up to 90% of forever chemicals in water within three hours, making it faster and more sustainable than current methods on the market. The research was supported by an NSERC Discovery grant and published in Nature Communications Engineering.
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Michael Thompson earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering from Purdue University in the USA, specializing in precision agriculture and smart farming technologies. His work revolves around the development of automated systems that increase farm efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Michael is now a senior engineer at a leading agri-tech company, where he designs innovative solutions for modern agriculture.