Scientists show how to safely destroy ‘forever chemicals’

New findings from an Australian-led team of international scientists shows how materials contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can be safely destroyed by burning them. 

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), the University of Newcastle, Colorado State University, and the National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory in Hefei, China, have defined a pathway for PFAS to be destroyed safely completely inside a hazardous waste incinerator. 

PFAS are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals used in various products to make them resistant to heat, stains, grease, and water. 

Some of the chemicals formed during PFAS incineration exist for just one millisecond, which is shorter than a housefly’s wing flap. CSIRO notes identifying these intermediary molecules is crucial to determine what harmful products are formed throughout the process. 

Researchers ionised then detected the different molecules created as the PFAS was burned. Using specialised equipment at the National Sunchrotron Radiation Laboratory, the researchers detected the short-lived molecules created as the PFAS burned. 

The goal of incinerating PFAS is called ‘mineralisation’, which converts the fluorocarbon chains into inorganic compounds like calcium fluoride, carbon dioxide and monoxide, and water. 

In turn, these byproducts can be captured at the source and transformed into reusable materials such as industrial chemicals, concrete, fertilisers and fuels. 

University of Newcastle Professor Eric Kennedy says the results show how PFAS can be safely destroyed at high temperatures. 

“This study has identified intermediary molecules that are critical for us to ensure the PFAS molecule is completely destroyed and to ensure no harmful by-products are formed,” Kennedy says. 

According to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, studies have found associations between people exposed to specific PFAS chemicals and increased cholesterol, reduced kidney function, and altered indicators of immunological function.

Other biological effects include altered levels of thyroid and sex hormones, and lower birth weight in babies, and later age for starting menstruation and earlier menopause. 

Further, exposure to specific PFAS chemicals has been associated with an increased risk of testicular and kidney cancer. 

CSIRO says the global concern around PFAS contamination is rising because these ‘forever chemicals’ persist and accumulate in the environment, and as a result, cause harm to human and animal health. 

The Department of Health and Aged Care reports most Australians are likely to have low levels of different PFAS in their bodies through exposure to everyday household items, including carpet, cosmetics, sunscreens, and some non-stick cookware. 

Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au   

Images: CSIRO

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