(2cj) Selective Separation and Degradation of PFAS Using Redox-Based Polymers | AIChE

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(2cj) Selective Separation and Degradation of PFAS Using Redox-Based Polymers

Authors 

Baldaguez Medina, P. - Presenter, University of Illinois at Urbana?Champaign
Su, X., University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
Research Interests

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent contaminants in water that have been present since the 1950s. In response to their environmental impact, multinational agencies have implemented various regulations to ban longer chain PFAS. However, this has led to the emergence of a new generation of PFAS, with hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (GenX) being the most prominent. Traditional methods employed in wastewater treatment plants have struggled to effectively target these newer, shorter PFAS compounds, as well as the traditional longer chain PFAS. To address this challenge, we have developed an electrochemically mediated adsorption method that targets long chain PFAS and GenX, utilizing redox electrodes. In our study, we evaluated poly(4-methacryloyloxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-oxyl) (PTMA)-co-poly(4-methacryloyloxy2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine) (PTMPMA), denoted as PT-co-PMA, along with redox polymers containing ferrocene and cobaltocene. These polymers were tested for their ability to selectively adsorb and release GenX and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in both batch and continuous systems. We observed faster kinetics when applying a potential, with a 35% higher uptake rate within the first 10 minutes compared to open circuit adsorption. The applicability of our system was demonstrated across various concentrations and water matrices. Additionally, in continuous flow experiments, our system achieved a removal efficiency of over 90% for GenX. Furthermore, we successfully combined our system with a boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode, resulting in complete defluorination of GenX. Through our research, we have showcased the capability of our electrochemical system, utilizing redox polymers, for the selective separation and potential remediation of PFAS contaminants.

Teaching Interests

My teaching interests extend beyond the classroom. I am deeply committed to mentoring and providing academic training opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. Collaboration with minority-serving institutions and field tests involving water samples from diverse regions will help promote inclusivity, accessibility, and inspire future generations. In the realm of teaching, I recognize the importance of mentorship in supporting the academic and leadership development of underrepresented students in STEM fields. As an aspiring teacher, I have specific goals in mind. Firstly, I aim to promote analytical and problem-solving skills among my students. For STEM disciplines, I believe in simplifying problem-solving techniques through engaging assignments and exams that encourage critical thinking. Secondly, I strive to enhance students' speaking and writing abilities by fostering their engagement with research. Presentations and reports will serve as effective evaluation methods, enabling students to connect course topics with current research findings. Moreover, I envision establishing a research group where independence is nurtured. Newcomers will be paired with senior students who can guide them in their independent research. I will provide sporadic supervision through regular one-on-one meetings to ensure progress and offer support as needed. By encouraging student autonomy, I aim to instill a sense of self-reliance and equip them with the necessary skills to tackle diverse challenges. In summary, my teaching interests encompass not only academic goals but also a deep commitment to mentoring and empowering underrepresented students in STEM. By creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment, I aspire to incentivize learning and inspire students to become independent learners who can contribute to securing water accessibility, preserving the environment, and fostering diversity in the fields of science and engineering.

Topics 

Adsorption
Electrochemical Fundamentals
Education

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