Scientists at the University of Queensland have invented a filter that can remove harmful PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemicals from water and recycle them into renewable batteries. The technology is over five times more effective than existing methods, reducing PFAS levels to non-detectable levels in drinking water.
The filter will be trialed at Brisbane’s Luggage Point Wastewater Treatment Plant before being expanded to other sites. Additionally, the team plans to test the technology on landfill leachate and contaminated compost leachate.
The innovative approach not only removes harmful particles from water but also captures chemicals that can be repurposed to help decarbonize the planet. The University of Queensland is confident that their technology will be ready for commercial production in three years, with plans to license or create a start-up company to further commercialize it.
This breakthrough comes as recent studies have found PFAS to be more widespread than previously believed, with levels above safe drinking standards detected in some areas. Civil and environmental engineering professor Denis O’Carroll emphasized the need for more research on the human health and ecosystem impacts of PFAS and other chemicals we put into the environment.
Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-05/scientists-invent-pfas-filter-for-battery-technology/104308214