Scientists at a German research center have developed two experimental techniques that show promise in breaking down PFAS compounds in water.
Researchers at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf are testing hydrodynamic cavitation and cold atmospheric plasma to degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. The first method generates vapor bubbles that collapse under pressure, exposing the chemicals to extreme heat and reactive molecules. The second uses plasma at the water surface combined with gas bubbles to bring PFAS to the treatment zone.
Experiments focused on perfluorooctane sulfonate, or PFOS. Cavitation degraded about 37 percent of the compound in tap water. Plasma treatment nearly eliminated both long-chain and short-chain PFAS while releasing roughly 35 percent of the bound fluorine.
Analyses by the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research confirmed the breakdown and fluoride release. The team aims to raise degradation rates above 80 percent and is exploring a combined system to improve efficiency.
The projects receive funding from the Helmholtz Association and the European Union. Further tests are examining energy use and potential byproducts.