Scientists have developed a new method to break down toxic “forever chemicals” at room temperature and without using UV light. The technique is effective, breaking down 100% of certain pollutants overnight. This method can recover useful components for reuse.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are stable and resistant to water and heat due to their strong bonds. However, these bonds also make the chemicals linger in the environment, linked to various health problems like diabetes, fertility issues, cancers, and immune system disruptions.
The new method uses semiconductor nanocrystals of cadmium sulfide, which are excited by LED lights. The PFAS molecules stick to the surface of the nanocrystals, allowing fluorine ions to be removed, breaking the sturdy bonds.
In tests, the technique successfully broke down 100% of perfluorooctanesulfonate and 81% of Nafion in 24 hours at a temperature of 38°C (100°F). The recovered fluorine ions can be reused for other industrial applications.
Source: https://newatlas.com/environment/pfas-toxic-forever-chemicals-100-percent-break-down-overnight/