Biocompatible Polymer Coacervate Adsorbents for PFAS Removal

Description          

This invention is a novel polymer-based coacervate method for rapid and efficient removal of PFAS contaminants from water. It utilizes two distinct biocompatible, such as polyacrylic acid (PAA) and polyethylene oxide (PEO), to form two-aqueous phase separating polymer coacervates that adsorb and remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from contaminated water. The coacervate can be prepared beforehand or formed directly in the water, achieving up to 99% PFAS removal or reducing concentrations to ultra-low levels of 4-10 parts per trillion. Beyond PFAS, these coacervates also have potential to remove other harmful contaminants like cyanotoxins and industrial dyes.

Key Advantages

• Rapid and highly efficient PFAS removal with ~99% effectiveness
• Environmentally friendly and biocompatible materials
• Flexible application: can be pre-made or formed in situ
• Capability to remove additional toxins such as cyanotoxins
• Reduces PFAS to ultra-low, safe concentration levels (4-10 ppt)
• Eliminates need for multifunctional contaminants removal solutions

Market Opportunities

• Municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities
• Drinking water purification systems
• Environmental cleanup operations and remediation projects
• Portable water purification devices for emergency or remote use
• Commercial water filtration systems targeting a broad range of toxins

Stage of Development

Proof of Concept

 Patent Status

     Publication: https://patents.google.com/patent/US20250042782A1