The system integrates an activated carbon filter with a unique, patented catalyst that captures harmful chemicals and converts them into safe materials on the filter medium.
A team of chemical engineers from the University of British Columbia has introduced a novel approach that effectively traps and processes PFAS substances—commonly referred to as “forever chemicals”—within one cohesive system.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are extensively utilized in producing consumer goods such as waterproof apparel due to their resistance to heat, moisture, and stains. However, they are also environmental contaminants that frequently permeate surface and groundwater across the globe, where they have been associated with various health problems, including cancer and liver damage.
“PFAS are incredibly challenging to decompose, whether they are present in the environment or within the human body,” said lead researcher Dr. Johan Foster, an associate professor in the field of chemical and biological engineering within the applied science faculty. “Our system enables the removal and destruction of these substances from the water supply before they pose a risk to our health.”
Capture and Eliminate
The UBC system merges an activated carbon filter with a patented catalyst designed to capture harmful substances and transform them into non-toxic components on the filter surface. This process of capturing chemical substances is known as adsorption.
“The entire process is quite swift, depending on the volume of water being treated,” Dr. Foster mentioned. “We can process large volumes of water through this catalyst, which adsorbs PFAS and destroys it in a rapid two-step method. Many current solutions can either only adsorb or are aimed at destroying the chemicals. Our catalyst system accomplishes both tasks, presenting a sustainable approach to the PFAS issue instead of merely delaying the solution.”
No light? No issues
Similar to other water treatment technologies, the UBC system depends on ultraviolet light to function, but it requires significantly less UV light compared to alternative methods.
During trials, the UBC catalyst consistently eliminated over 85% of PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid)—a specific type of forever chemical—even in conditions of low light.
“Our catalyst isn’t restricted by optimal situations. Its performance across varying UV light levels guarantees its usefulness in different environments, including areas with minimal sunlight,” stated Dr. Raphaell Moreira, a professor at Universität Bremen who conducted research at UBC.
For instance, a northern city with limited sunlight could still utilize this PFAS treatment solution.
“Although the initial studies concentrated on PFAS compounds, the catalyst’s adaptability indicates its potential to eliminate other persistent pollutants, providing an encouraging response to the urgent challenges of water contamination,” Dr. Moreira elaborated.
From municipal water systems to industriales decontamination
The research team is optimistic that the catalyst could serve as a cost-effective solution for city water systems and also for specialized industrial cleanup projects.
They have established a company named ReAct Materials to investigate commercial avenues for their technology.
“Our catalyst can eradicate up to 90% of forever chemicals in water within only three hours—much quicker than competing solutions available today. Additionally, it can be synthesized from forest or agricultural waste, making it a more affordable and eco-friendly alternative to the complex and expensive techniques currently in use,” Dr. Foster stated.
This research was funded by an NSERC Discovery grant and was recently published in Nature Communications Engineering.
