University of Florida Researchers Develop Reusable Gel to Remove PFOA from Water

Chemical engineering researchers at the University of Florida have developed a gel-based material that captures PFOA, one of the most prevalent types of PFAS found in the environment. Unlike some filtration materials that rely on fluorinated compounds, the new material uses strategically designed electrical charges to attract and bind PFOA molecules throughout the gel rather than only along its surface. This approach increases the material’s filtration capacity while reducing reliance on fluorinated components that could potentially introduce additional compounds into the environment.

After capturing PFOA, the gel can be flushed with commonly available solvents and reused for additional treatment cycles. Researchers are continuing to test and refine the technology for potential use in commercial and municipal water treatment applications. For water professionals, the development highlights the importance of material innovation, reusable treatment technologies and continued research into more effective strategies for managing PFAS in drinking water and wastewater.

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PIONEER REMOVES LEAD, CYST & PFOA/PFOS