American physicists from the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (FNAL) have proposed a new way to purify water from the so-called “forever chemicals” PFAS. The research was published in the official gazette Web site scientific institution.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds) are substances commonly used in many industries, including clothing, food packaging, and cookware. They are known for their resistance to degradation, which is why they are called “forever chemicals.” PFAS makes materials resistant to water, oil and heat.
Previous studies have shown that PFAS may increase the risk of cancer, birth defects in babies, liver and thyroid diseases, decreased immunity and hormonal disorders.
FNAL experts found that high-energy electron beams are excellent candidates for destroying PFAS in the environment. Researchers have successfully demonstrated that an electron beam can destroy PFOA and PFOS, the two most common types of PFAS in water.
“Electron beam technology is a promising technology for breaking down PFAS in large volumes of water containing high concentrations of the chemical,” said FNAL Chief Scientist Charlie Cooper.
The flow of electrons breaks the bond between carbon and fluorine due to which the “eternal chemicals” are not naturally destroyed in nature.
According to scientists, electron beam facilities to remove chemicals from water could be placed in treatment plants or directly in industries where PFAS-containing waste is produced.
Previous researchers was created Rapid test to detect PFAS in water and soil in three minutes.