Innovative Technology Harnesses Sunlight to Decompose ‘Forever Chemicals’
Researchers at the University of Bath have developed a groundbreaking photocatalyst capable of using sunlight to degrade 'forever chemicals' (PFAS). This novel system, combining graphitic carbon nitride and a microporous polymer (PIM-1), efficiently breaks down these persistent pollutants into harmless byproducts. The technology offers a cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable solution for environmental remediation, also featuring potential for real-time contamination sensing. This marks a significant advance in combating PFAS pollution.
An international research team, led by the University of Bath, has unveiled a pioneering photocatalytic system designed to tackle persistent polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely known as 'forever chemicals.' These compounds, found in numerous consumer products, are highly stable and resist natural degradation, leading to their widespread accumulation in ecosystems and living organisms, posing increasing health and environmental risks.TheThe innovative solution employs a graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) semiconductor, known for its visible-light activity, enhanced by an intrinsically microporous polymer, PIM-1. This composite catalyst harnesses abundant sunlight to generate reactive species that effectively cleave the robust carbon-fluorine bonds characteristic of PFAS molecules. The degradation process transforms these harmful chemicals into innocuous substances like carbon dioxide and fluoride ions.This technology stands out for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and scalability, operating efficiently under neutral pH and utilizing sustainable solar energy, unlike many prior methods requiring harsh conditions. PIM-1 not only boosts PFAS adsorption onto the catalyst's active surface, maximizing degradation efficiency, but also stabilizes the catalyst, ensuring sustained activity.Beyond degradation, the system offers a dual functionality: it can also detect fluoride ions released during PFAS breakdown, paving the way for real-time environmental monitoring. This breakthrough, highlighted by Professor Frank Marken and Dr. Fernanda C. O. L. Martins, represents a significant step towards accessible, portable remediation and sensing platforms for remote or resource-limited settings, aligning with global efforts for sustainable and effective pollution control.
