As part of the ZIM project “Removal of PFAS from water using novel UV catalysts,” scientists from the IOM research area “Surfaces of porous membrane filters” are working with the Purion GmbH to develop innovative processes for reliable water treatment. The project is being supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) with funding of €220,000 over three years.

Access to clean water is also becoming increasingly important in Germany. Climate change-induced droughts and the introduction of problematic substances such as per- and polyfluorinated chemicals (PFAS), hormones, pesticides, and pharmaceutical residues are placing a considerable strain on water resources. PFAS in particular are a focus of attention due to their extreme stability. They are difficult to degrade and can thus enter the food chain. As one of the largest consumers of water, agriculture is currently not allowed to use treated wastewater from municipal wastewater plants for irrigation or animal husbandry, as it may still contain pollutants. However, in order to use wastewater sensibly in the interests of a sustainable circular economy, it is necessary to remove these critical pollutants reliably and in compliance with the law.

The aim of the project is therefore to use innovative UV catalysts to develop a process that effectively removes pollutants such as PFAS, thus enabling the safe reuse of water.

Appropriate water treatment plays a central role in the project. Among other things, it must be ensured that critical chemical contaminants are removed reliably and in compliance with the law.