Tool that can remove cancer-causing forever chemicals from water in minutes, developed by scientists
tool
that can remove more than 99% of cancer-causing 'forever chemicals' from drinking water in just five minutes. The high-tech device, created by scientists at the
University of Utah
, not only purifies water with remarkable efficiency but also glows when it detects contamination, making it a real-time monitoring system as well. Known as PFAS, these persistent chemicals are linked to cancer and other serious health problems. This new invention could transform how we tackle toxic water pollution across the globe.
The cancer connection: why forever chemicals are a serious health risk
Forever chemicals, officially known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are synthetic compounds used in a wide range of consumer products, from non-stick cookware to waterproof fabrics. Because they do not break down easily in the environment, they accumulate in soil, water, and even the human body. Studies have linked them to several health risks, including cancer, liver damage, immune system dysfunction, and developmental delays in children.
How the new filtering technology works and what it targets
The research team developed a lab-made crystalline material called a metal-organic framework (MOF), which acts like a molecular sieve. As contaminated water passes through the MOF, it captures and traps PFOA, one of the most toxic types of PFAS, removing more than 99% of it within minutes. This process is not only rapid and effective but also proven to function in complex environmental conditions, including the presence of salts and natural organic matter.
A glowing warning system built into the material
What sets this tool apart is its built-in detection feature. When PFAS molecules bind to the MOF material, it emits a fluorescent glow, allowing users to instantly confirm whether water is contaminated. This dual capability of purification and detection makes the tool especially valuable for both water treatment and real-time environmental monitoring.
A reusable and sustainable solution
Unlike many existing PFAS removal technologies that are costly and degrade with repeated use, the new MOF filter is reusable. In tests, the material maintained 93% of its efficiency even after five wash cycles, pointing to its potential as a low-cost, long-term solution for filtering drinking water.
What this means for public health and next steps
With over 200 million Americans estimated to have PFAS-contaminated water, this new development is a promising step toward safer drinking supplies. Although the MOF-based system is still in the research phase, scientists believe it could eventually be adapted for everyday use. Until then, people living in areas with known PFAS contamination are encouraged to use water filters certified by the National Sanitation Foundation to reduce exposure to PFOA and PFOS.
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