Algae-Enhanced Electrospun Polyacrylonitrile Nanofibrous Membrane for High-Performance Short-Chain PFAS Remediation...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Materials Science
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• GenX, a short-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), replaced older PFASs but poses significant toxicity risks.
• GenX is a persistent environmental pollutant requiring effective removal strategies from water bodies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an electrospun nanofibrous membrane incorporating algae for GenX removal.
• To investigate the synergistic effect of algae in enhancing the adsorption capacity for GenX.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of electrospun PAN/Algae bicomponent nanofibrous membranes (ES(PAN/Algae)).
• Testing the membrane's capability to bind and remove GenX from water.
• Characterization of GenX removal mechanisms using techniques like FTIR and XPS.

Main Results:

• The ES(PAN/Algae) membrane demonstrated significantly improved GenX removal efficiency.
• Maximum GenX removal capacity reached 0.9 mmol/g at pH 6, outperforming many existing adsorbents.
• Algae incorporation showed a synergistic effect, enhancing the membrane's performance.

Conclusions:

• Electrospun PAN/Algae membranes are highly efficient for removing GenX from water.
• This approach offers a sustainable and cost-effective method for remediating short-chain PFAS contamination.
• The study highlights the potential of using common materials for advanced water purification.