PFAS Extraction

Background

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) constitute a class of synthetic chemicals extensively utilised across a broad range of industrial and consumer applications. Owing to their remarkable chemical stability, PFAS are highly persistent in the environment, which has led to escalating concerns regarding their potential adverse effects on human health. Consequently, regulatory scrutiny and environmental monitoring of PFAS have intensified in recent years.

Technology overview

This innovation centres on the development of functionalised magnetic nanoparticles specifically engineered for the efficient capture and removal of PFAS from divers sources. The technology presents a straightforward, rapid, and highly effective approach to addressing the challenge of PFAS contamination.

Stage of Development

The technology has been successfully validated in laboratory settings, demonstrating robust performance in the extraction of PFAS from aqueous solutions. Further development and scale-up for field deployment are currently being pursued.

Benefits

• High efficiency: Achieves extraction of up to 98% of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) present in water.
• Rapid action: Completes the extraction process in less than 20 minutes.
• Reusability: Magnetic nanoparticles can be recycled and reused for a minimum of 15 cycles without significant loss of performance.
• Simplicity of Manufacture: The production process is straightforward.
• Clog-free recovery: The technology enables recovery of nanoparticles without the need for conventional filters, thereby eliminating issues related to filter clogging.

Applications

• Treatment of drinking water and wastewater contaminated with PFAS.
• Remediation of industrial effluents.
• Environmental monitoring and clean-up operations.
• Use in portable water purification systems.

Opportunity
This technology offers a timely and scalable solution to the global challenge of PFAS contamination, aligning with increasingly stringent regulatory requirements and growing market demand for effective water purification technologies.

Seeking

Development partners, Licensing


IP

Patent application submitted (priority year 2024)