Scientists have developed a new material that uses sunlight to break down PFAS, a group of long-lasting pollutants often called “forever chemicals.”
The discovery offers hope for cleaning up contaminated water and soil, as well as creating easier ways to detect these harmful substances in the environment.
PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are widely used in everyday products because they repel water, oil, and stains.
They are found in items such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging, cosmetics, and firefighting foams. However, their extreme chemical stability means they do not break down naturally.
Instead, they build up in the environment, wildlife, and the human body over time. Some studies have linked PFAS exposure to health problems, including certain cancers, though the full risks are still being studied.
An international research team led by the University of Bath has created a carbon-based catalyst that can destroy PFAS using energy from sunlight.
A catalyst is a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up itself.
The researchers combined a material called carbon nitride with a special polymer that traps PFAS molecules and holds them close to the catalyst’s surface.
When exposed to light, the catalyst triggers a reaction that breaks the tough chemical bonds in PFAS. The process converts the pollutants into less harmful substances, including carbon dioxide and fluoride. Fluoride is commonly found in toothpaste and drinking water at safe levels.
One of the key advantages of the new system is that it works under neutral pH conditions, similar to those found in natural water sources.
This means it could potentially operate in real environmental settings without needing harsh chemicals or extreme conditions. The catalyst is also relatively simple to produce, which could make it more affordable to scale up in the future.
Researchers say the technology could eventually be used not only to clean up contamination but also to detect PFAS. As the chemicals break down, fluoride is released, which could serve as a signal that PFAS are present. This opens the possibility of portable sensors that could monitor pollution in rivers, lakes, or groundwater without requiring expensive laboratory equipment.
The project involved scientists from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom, along with collaborators from universities in Brazil, Scotland, and Wales. While the research is still at an early stage, the team is now seeking industrial partners to help develop the technology for real-world use.
Detecting and removing PFAS is currently difficult and costly, often requiring specialized facilities. A sunlight-powered solution could provide a simpler and more sustainable approach. By harnessing renewable energy, the new catalyst could one day help communities reduce exposure to these persistent chemicals and protect both human health and the environment.
If successfully developed, this innovation could become an important tool in the global effort to tackle one of the most stubborn forms of pollution on Earth.
