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Environment

Reusable granules suck harmful PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ out of water

UK start-up Puraffinity has created a method of removing pollution from water using a material that selectively binds to PFAS chemicals

By Madeleine Cuff

31 May 2023

A sign on the Huron river in Michigan warning of high levels of PFAS

PFAS pollution in the Huron river in Michigan means anglers are warned not to eat fish they catch there

Jim West/Alamy Stock Photo

Coated aluminium granules selectively target and extract harmful “forever chemicals” from water better than any other method.

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of synthetic chemicals widely used in coatings and foams that resist oil, heat and water. There are thousands of types of PFAS, used in everything from dental floss to waterproof jackets and non-stick pans.

Several of these chemicals have been shown to cause harmful health effects, including …

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