Scientists Develop Breakthrough Method to Eliminate ‘Forever Chemicals’ from Water

Quick Summary

• Scientists developed a new method to break down harmful “forever chemicals” (PFAS) using a sunlight-activated material called cadmium indium sulfide.
• PFAS are persistent chemicals used in household items like cookware, cosmetics, and waterproof clothing since the 1940s, linked to health risks such as cancer, reduced fertility, autoimmune diseases, and developmental disorders.
• the method involves photocatalysts that absorb visible light and generate reactive oxygen species (free radicals) which attack chemical bonds in PFAS molecules.
• In testing against perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), the technique achieved nearly complete breakdown of 99% of these molecules under optimized conditions.
• Byproducts from this process include fluoride and components adaptable for other products like toothpaste or fertilizers.
• Researchers aim to further stabilize these materials for larger-scale applications.

Image credit: oxygen via Getty images.
!Abstract illustration with swirling blue shapes resembling water

Indian Opinion Analysis

The breakthrough innovation targeting “forever chemicals” has major implications globally and could benefit countries like India facing industrial pollution issues. With rising urbanization reliant on products containing PFAS-such as nonstick cookware or water-resistant consumer goods-it is vital for India to address long-term environmental persistence of toxic substances. While this method may not yet be scaled up for widespread adoption, India’s interest in sustainable technology could foster future experiments incorporating sunlight-powered treatments for contaminants.

The emphasis on converting harmful pollutants into benign or usable byproducts aligns with India’s push toward circular economies. If perfected at scale, such technologies represent an opportunity not only to clean the ecosystem but also reduce reliance on imports related to water treatment solutions-a topic crucial during monsoonal water contamination peaks.

Read More