Advanced Upcycling of Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances in High-tech Industries (2026-2027)
Abstract
Polymer PFAS are a type of man-made ¿forever chemicals¿. They are widely used in electronics, semiconductors and renewable energy. Small-molecule PFAS are found in many everyday products, including non-stick pans, waterproof jackets, food packaging and firefighting foams. These chemicals are useful, but they never go away. If polymer PFAS waste is not handled properly, it can slowly release small-molecule PFAS, which are harmful and persistent. They can remain in soil and water for decades. Over time, they build up in fish, wildlife, and people. This creates pollution and health risks. At present, polymer PFAS waste is very hard to treat. Current methods are slow, costly, and often create more toxic by-products. This makes PFAS one of the toughest environmental challenges we face. Our project is developing a new Australian-led technology to tackle this problem. The idea is simple: turn dangerous waste into safe and valuable materials. Think of it as turning toxic rubbish into useful bu
