Clarkson Researchers Crack Code to Safely Remove ‘Forever Chemicals’ from Water Systems

Turning the Tide on PFAS: Clarkson University Unveils Sustainable Cleanup Solution

Clarkson University is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, technological education, groundbreaking research, innovation, and sustainable economic development. Each year, over 7,800 students benefit from the expertise of Clarkson’s faculty through its nationally acclaimed undergraduate and graduate STEM-designated programs in engineering, business, science, and the health professions. Additionally, the university is recognized for its proficiency in offering executive education, industry-relevant certifications, and K–12 STEM programs. Clarkson alumni are celebrated for their exceptional achievements, with average earnings placing them in the top 2% nationally, and remarkably, one in five alumni holds a leadership role at the C-suite level.

Building on this legacy of excellence, a research team at Clarkson University has developed a groundbreaking method to eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from spent sorbents, addressing a critical environmental challenge. PFAS, commonly referred to as "forever chemicals," are synthetic compounds found in products like non-stick cookware, waterproof fabrics, firefighting foam, and food packaging, valued for their resistance to heat, water, and stains. However, their strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them persist in the environment, posing significant environmental and health risks.

To combat this, Clarkson researchers introduced a method to break down PFAS trapped in spent anion exchange resins (AERs) without resorting to incineration or chemical solvents. AERs, frequently used to treat drinking water and wastewater, have traditionally posed disposal challenges due to the risk of releasing toxic byproducts or re-emitting PFAS through incineration or landfilling. Clarkson’s innovative approach successfully reduced PFAS levels to below detectable limits in both laboratory-prepared and field-tested resins, offering a scalable and eco-friendly solution that operates under ambient conditions.

Led by Associate Professor Yang Yang from Clarkson's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the research team utilized piezoelectric ball milling combined with boron nitride (BN) powders to achieve near-complete destruction of PFAS on AERs, converting them into harmless fluoride ions. Professor Yang highlighted that the method provides a viable pathway for eliminating PFAS from spent resins without generating secondary pollution. He further emphasised that the innovation offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to existing disposal methods for hazardous solid waste and spent sorbents. The scale-up demonstration of this technology is currently underway.

The study, led by graduate student Jinyuan Zhu as the first author, also benefited from the expertise of Clarkson faculty members, including Professors Thomas Holsen, Sujan Fernando, and Alan Rossner. Supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the research was recently published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters. This development signifies an important advancement in sustainable practices for addressing environmental challenges posed by PFAS.

Editor’s Note:

PFAS contamination is a deeply concerning issue, with studies showing that 97% of Americans have detectable levels of these chemicals in their blood. It is also estimated that over 200 million people in the U.S. may be consuming PFAS-contaminated drinking water. These staggering figures underscore the widespread nature of PFAS pollution and its serious implications for both public health and the environment. The research conducted at Clarkson University stands out as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how scientific innovation and commitment can address even the most persistent environmental threats. PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” have long challenged researchers due to their resistance to degradation and their toxic effects. Conventional disposal methods such as incineration and landfilling not only fail to fully eliminate the problem but can also lead to secondary contamination. Clarkson’s novel approach breaks this cycle—delivering a scalable, sustainable, and solvent-free solution that works under ambient conditions and effectively eliminates PFAS from spent sorbents.

SkooBuzz applauds the Clarkson research team for their dedication and determination in tackling a crisis that has remained unresolved for far too long. Their work is a powerful reminder that universities are more than educational institutions—they are catalysts for real-world impact and positive change.