Researchers Develop Method to Destroy Forever Chemicals in Water

Researchers at Arizona State University have created a technology capable of breaking down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as forever chemicals, in contaminated water. The study, published on October 19 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, demonstrates that the system eliminated over 90% of six tested compounds during a 58-day trial.

PFAS are used in products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof fabrics, and firefighting foams. Their strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them resistant to conventional water treatment methods, which typically trap the chemicals in filters rather than destroying them. The new process aims to decompose the molecules directly. According to study lead Bruce Rittmann, these substances persist in the environment and are linked to health risks including cancer and immune system disorders.