Microbially-mediated defluorination of high-priority PFAS (2026-2029)
Abstract
This project aims to innovatively investigate microbial biodegradation of recalcitrant per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as toxic forever chemicals. By exploring largely unknown microbial defluorination pathways for perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), it will demonstrate microbial defluorination feasibility, elucidate metabolic mechanisms, and characterise kinetic properties. Additionally, innovative, cost-effective, and synergistic remediation strategies will be developed. These findings will bridge critical knowledge gaps, providing groundbreaking insights into microbial defluorination, enabling predictive modeling of PFAS behavior, and paving the way for next-generation bioremediation approaches.
