Researchers at the University of Bath have developed a method that achieves by using 3D printed ceramic ink to create infused networks, also called “monoliths,” that have the ability to remove at least 75% of perfluorooctanoic acid(PFOA), one of the most common and harmful perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances(PFAS).
3D printed ceramic ink cleans water
The results of this research, recently published in The Chemical Engineering Journal, suggest that this new approach could become an essential tool for future efforts in the decontamination of permanent chemicals in water.
PFASs, known as “eternal chemicals” because of their high resistance to decomposition (they can remain in the environment for more than 1000 years), are artificially produced and are linked to several health problems, such as damage to the reproductive, developmental and cardiovascular systems, as well as increasing the risk of diabetes.
These chemicals are commonly found in household products with water-repellent properties, including non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, paints, fabrics and firefighting foams. The research team, led by Dr. Liana Zoumpouli, Ph. Liana Zoumpouli of Bath’s Department of Chemical Engineering, highlights the importance of this breakthrough in water treatment and public health, emphasizing that their study is energy efficient and potentially scalable, due to the simplicity of 3D printing.
3D printing allows the creation of structures with a large surface area. Once manufactured, the monoliths are introduced into the water, where PFAS removal begins automatically, in less than three hours. This technique is compatible with existing water treatment plants, both in the UK and elsewhere.
PFAS level regulations
Some researchers anticipate that stricter legislation will be introduced as the health risks associated with these harmful substances become more detailed. Professor Davide Mattia, co-author of the study, points out that although in the UK there is no strict regulation on the use of these chemicals in drinking water, it is expected that policies will soon change, and water companies will consider integrating stricter health systems to address them.
Each of the monoliths measures approximately 4 cm and are made from ink impregnated with ceramic indium indium oxide, extracted using a 3D printer, creating a network system. This material has the ability to bind PFASs, allowing the chemicals to adhere to the monoliths and be effectively removed from the water. Initial tests have shown that the monoliths can remove up to 75% of PFASs from the water, and the research team is working to further improve the efficiency of the process through additional refinements.
Moreover, the monoliths have proven to be more effective with repeated use. After each use, the monoliths undergo a high-temperature thermal regeneration treatment, which increases their removability in subsequent uses. This aspect of the process is being studied by the researchers, who hope to conduct further experiments to better understand this phenomenon.
The research team includes Dr. Alysson Martins, Dr. Liana Zoumpouli, Dr. Antonio José Exposito, Dr. Jannis Wenk and Prof. Davide Mattia. Liana Zoumpouli, Dr. Antonio José Exposito, Dr. Jannis Wenk and Prof. Davide Mattia. The paper describing this advance, entitled“3D-Printed In2O3 Monoliths for PFAS Removal“, has been published in The Chemical Engineering Journal. This work has been funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.
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Source and photo: University of Bath
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