Researchers at Rice University have developed a new material that rapidly captures and destroys toxic “forever chemicals” in water.
The team focused on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS.
The journal Advanced Materials recently published the study.
The material could significantly improve cleanup efforts in rivers, drinking water systems, and industrial wastewater.
Researchers say the technology offers a sustainable alternative to conventional filtration methods.
PFAS Pollution Challenge
Manufacturers introduced PFAS in the 1940s for use in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and industrial products.
These chemicals resist natural breakdown and accumulate in water, soil, and the human body.
Scientific studies link PFAS exposure to liver damage and certain cancers.
Most water treatment systems rely on activated carbon filters.
These filters capture PFAS slowly, reach saturation quickly, and generate secondary waste.
LDH Material Breakthrough
The research team created a copper-aluminum layered double hydroxide material, known as LDH.
They infused the material with nitrate to enhance chemical performance.
Postdoctoral researcher Youngkun Chung led the work under Professor Michael S. Wong.
Laboratory tests showed that the LDH absorbs PFAS more than 1,000 times more effectively than existing materials.
The material removed high PFAS concentrations within minutes.
It worked nearly 100 times faster than commercial filtration options.
Real-World Testing and Reuse
The team tested the LDH material across multiple water sources.
They examined tap water, river water, and industrial wastewater.
The material performed well in both batch systems and continuous flow systems used by municipal plants.
Researchers also demonstrated a reuse process.
They heated PFAS-loaded LDH with calcium carbonate.
This step destroyed more than half of the captured chemicals.
The process regenerated the material for at least six cycles.
The system produced no toxic byproducts.
Global Collaboration and Sustainability Links
Funding agencies in the United States and South Korea supported the project.
Research partners included KAIST, Pukyung National University, and several Rice University institutes.
The collaboration highlights the value of international research efforts.
Experts say the technology could help protect water resources for agriculture.
Aligning such innovations with Sustainable Agriculture Standards (SAS) may strengthen water stewardship.
The Global Sustainability Impact Foundation (GSIF) supports these standards globally.
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