Researchers have discovered a new method for breaking down PFAS, which are man-made “forever” chemicals recognized for their water-resistant qualities but linked to potential health risks from long-term exposure. The team has developed an effective photocatalytic system that utilizes LED light at room temperature to dismantle the challenging carbon-fluorine bonds found in these substances. This innovative system is more efficient compared to traditional chemical manufacturing methods that require high temperatures for similar results.
Researchers at Colorado State University have discovered a new method for breaking down PFAS—synthetic “forever” chemicals known for their water-resistant features that pose health risks from prolonged exposure.
The carbon-fluorine bond present in PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) compounds is notoriously difficult to break. This durability has led to their extensive use in medical, industrial, and commercial applications. However, their persistence makes disposal problematic, leading to contamination of water, air, and soil worldwide, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA indicates that exposure to these enduring substances can cause health issues, including cancer and reproductive challenges.
In a recent study published in Nature, CSU researchers demonstrate a remarkable photocatalytic system powered by LED light that operates effectively at room temperature to break down those challenging carbon-fluorine bonds. This technique represents an advance over conventional chemical processes, which usually necessitate high temperatures to achieve similar outcomes.
The research at CSU was spearheaded by Professor Garret Miyake from the Department of Chemistry. He collaborated with fellow CSU Professor Robert Paton and Professor Niels Damrauer from the University of Colorado Boulder on this project.
Miyake emphasized that the diverse expertise of the collaborating teams contributed significantly to this impactful interdisciplinary finding.
“Our approach marks a significant milestone in organic synthesis by activating these difficult carbon-fluorine bonds across various scenarios,” he explained. “Our method is not only more sustainable but also more efficient, and it can help tackle stubborn substances in plastics, in addition to the direct applications related to PFAS.”
Globally, most people have encountered PFAS through contact with or consumption of materials that contain them. Drinking water is a common exposure source, but these compounds are also present in non-stick products, food packaging, and various manufacturing processes. Research from the EPA indicates that even low levels of exposure can lead to developmental issues, such as low birth weight and weakened immune responses, among other health concerns.
Postdoctoral researcher Mihai Popescu, a co-author of the study, contributed to understanding the mechanisms behind the research using computational chemistry. He stated that the next step would involve making this technology practical for real-world applications where PFAS are encountered, such as in water or soil.
“We need to refine this technology to ensure its applicability in environments where PFAS are present,” said Popescu. “There is still a considerable amount of work to be done to adapt the chemistry we are presenting here for those scenarios.”
Miyake also serves as the director of the Center for Sustainable Photoredox Catalysis (SuPRCat), funded by the National Science Foundation, which was established in 2023 with the aim of creating chemical manufacturing methods that leverage light energy and utilize readily available materials as catalysts.
Miyake noted that similar research initiatives akin to this study are ongoing at the center daily. Postdoctoral researcher Xin Liu, who led the synthetic aspect of this research and is a member of SuPRCat, expressed optimism for the future.
“This research specifically targets forever chemicals, but our method with LED lights opens up numerous opportunities for achieving reactions in a more sustainable and efficient manner,” remarked Liu. “From addressing non-biodegradable plastics to enhancing fertilizer manufacturing processes, this is a crucial area for research, and CSU is in an excellent position to take the lead.”
