Lummus Technology and Element Six Collaborate to Combat PFAS Pollution with Diamond Technology
Lummus Technology, a prominent player in process technologies and advanced energy solutions, has joined forces with Element Six, a leading Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) diamond technology company, to address the global issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) destruction. This strategic partnership integrates Lummus's process engineering expertise with Element Six's innovative CVD diamond solutions to devise a method for eradicating these persistent environmental pollutants.
The collaboration harnesses Element Six’s patented boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrochemical oxidation technology and Lummus’s electro-oxidation technology for water and wastewater treatment. Coordinated testing using free-standing BDD electrodes has effectively eliminated both long and short-chain PFAS compounds, demonstrating the efficacy of their combined technologies.
Both organizations are actively collaborating with customers to implement their BDD electrochemical oxidation technology in real-world scenarios, showcasing its effectiveness across various applications. PFAS, often referred to as 'forever chemicals,' pose considerable health risks and are subject to global regulatory controls. This collaboration represents a pivotal stride in addressing environmental concerns and ensuring a safer future.
Key Takeaways
- Lummus Technology collaborates with Element Six to combat PFAS pollution using CVD diamond technology.
- The partnership amalgamates Lummus's process engineering with E6's BDD electrochemical oxidation technology.
- Joint testing successfully eradicated long and short-chain PFAS using free-standing BDD electrodes.
- The collaboration aims for scalable, efficient solutions to safeguard public health and the environment.
- PFAS, recognized as 'forever chemicals,' pose significant health risks and are under extensive regulatory scrutiny globally.
Analysis
The collaboration between Lummus Technology and Element Six has the potential to reshape PFAS treatment markets, benefiting industries and governments seeking regulatory compliance. The combination of Lummus's process engineering expertise and Element Six's BDD technology is pivotal in developing scalable solutions. Short-term implications include improved water treatment capabilities and potential market expansion for both entities. In the long run, this alliance could lead to broader adoption of CVD diamond technology in environmental remediation, influencing global health and environmental policies. Financial instruments linked to water treatment and environmental technology sectors may witness increased investment.
Did You Know?
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) Diamond Technology:
- Explanation: Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) is a method employed to produce high-purity, high-performance diamond films and materials. This technique involves the chemical reaction of gaseous compounds, depositing a solid diamond layer on a substrate. CVD diamond technology is particularly renowned for its capability to create diamonds with unique properties, including high thermal conductivity, electrical resistivity, and chemical inertness, making them ideal for various industrial applications, such as electrochemical oxidation.
- Boron-Doped Diamond (BDD) Electrochemical Oxidation Technology:
- Explanation: Boron-Doped Diamond (BDD) electrodes are a type of electrode crafted from synthetic diamond doped with boron. These electrodes are extraordinarily efficient in electrochemical processes by virtue of their wide potential window, low background current, and outstanding stability. BDD electrochemical oxidation technology utilizes these electrodes to oxidize and disintegrate persistent organic pollutants like PFAS into less harmful substances through the application of electrical current. This technology is especially valuable in water and wastewater treatment, as it can effectively eliminate a wide range of contaminants.
- Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS):
- Explanation: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) constitute a group of synthetic chemicals encompassing PFOA, PFOS, and GenX substances, among others. Renowned for their environmental persistence and bioaccumulation in humans and wildlife, PFAS are commonly present in various consumer products, firefighting foams, and industrial processes. Due to their detrimental effects on human health, including potential links to cancer, liver damage, and immune system suppression, PFAS are subject to rigorous regulatory controls and represent a significant focal point of environmental remediation endeavors.