Superfund Research Program

Lead researcher Susie Dai, Ph.D., hopes to apply the platform toward a broad range of environmental pollutant bioremediation practices. (Photo courtesy of Susie Dai)

A novel technology that can efficiently bind to and break down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment was developed by scientists at Texas A&M Agrilife Research with support from an SRP individual research grant.

The new approach uses a plant-based material that adsorbs PFAS, and microbial fungi that literally eat up PFAS and could provide a powerful solution for finally getting rid of these contaminants. The platform can also remove co-contaminants from water, like heavy metals and other organic pollutants.

Read more in the NIEHS Environmental Factor Newsletter.