A review of current and prospective catalytic routes for the management of PFAs contamination in water

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2024

Authors

Restivo, J (Author) Other; Carla Orge (Author) FEUP; Soares, OSGP (Author) Other; Manuel Fernando R Pereira (Author) FEUP

Journal

Title: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Vol. 12

ISSN: 2213-3437

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-010-D0Y

DOI: 10.1016/j.jece.2024.112859

Abstract (EN): Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) are a class of chemicals widely used for their remarkable physicochemical properties. A variety of household and industrial products and processes make use of PFAs, with applications ranging from non-stick cookware to fire fighting foams, of over 200 estimated distinct uses. As the impacts in the health of humans and the ecosystems have become evident, the management of their utilization and disposal has become a priority for regulatory agencies. However, due to their chemical stability, widespread diffusion in the environment, and range of products falling within the PFAs denomination, the control of emissions and remediation of contaminations is an exceptionally challenging undertaking. Water treatment technologies will play an important role in the overall PFAs management strategies, but their efficiency is severely lacking. PFAs are typically resistant to conventional approaches, and it is becoming increasigly evident that the only effective removal solution is through the use of energy -intensive ultrafiltration systems. An opportunity for the development of advanced catalytic processes emerges from this context. A systematic review of the current research panorama identifies several approaches focusing on the degradation of PFAs by oxidation processes, and/or on the conversion into non -harmful or easily removable chemicals by substituition of fluorine atoms. The in-depth analysis of the chemistry involved in the reported catalytic reactions allows the identification of new pathways for future research. A particular highlight is the potential synergy between hydrodefluoration approaches with metallic hydrogenation catalysts that may accelerate the reaction by providing platforms for PFAs reaction with dissociated hydrogen.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 19