(680d) Efficient Degradation of Perfluoroalkyl Acids in Phytoremediation Wetlands: A Novel Catalytic Hydrothermal Liquefaction Approach

The contamination of natural water bodies and soil by per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) poses significant environmental challenges, prompting the need for innovative treatment methods to overcome the limitations of conventional approaches. This study examines the distribution of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) – including perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs), and perfluoroalkyl phosphonic acids (PFPAs) – in bulrush, a phytoremediation wetland plant.

A novel catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) method was developed, successfully degrading over 95% of PFCAs, PFSAs, and PFPAs accumulated in bulrush biomass using basic catalysts. Further investigation into the catalytic degradation of PFAAs in water revealed that the HTL method, assisted by basic catalysts, significantly accelerates and enhances the degradation process. This study highlights the potential of the HTL method in addressing PFAS contamination in water and soil.

The rapid catalytic HTL data offer valuable insights for developing a continuous HTL system for PFAS treatment, as well as informing the integration of phytoremediation and treatment of these persistent "forever chemicals." The findings emphasize the promise of the HTL method in mitigating the environmental impacts of PFAS contamination and contribute to the ongoing efforts to develop effective remediation strategies.