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Electrochemical Synthesis of Isolated Fluoride Reagents from PFAS
Florian Dorchies1, Luke P Ward1, Isaac P Richards1
1School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol, Avon BS8 1TS, U.K.
Journal of the American Chemical Society
|March 9, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a new electrochemical method to recycle persistent per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into valuable fluoride reagents. This approach enables a circular economy by transforming PFAS waste into useful chemical resources.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Electrochemistry
- Green Chemistry
Background:
- Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental pollutants with significant health concerns.
- Current methods for PFAS decomposition have limitations in creating isolable fluoride reagents for broad applications.
- Valorization of PFAS waste is crucial for establishing a circular economy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a direct electrochemical strategy for recycling nonpolymeric PFAS.
- To generate synthetically important fluoride reagents from PFAS waste.
- To explore the selective generation of fluoride or bifluoride ions by controlling electrolyte and solvent conditions.
Main Methods:
- Direct electrochemical decomposition of nonpolymeric PFAS.
- Systematic variation of electrolyte and solvent composition.
- Analysis of generated fluoride and bifluoride species.
Main Results:
- Successful recycling of PFAS into valuable fluoride reagents via electrochemistry.
- Demonstrated control over the selective generation of fluoride (F-) or bifluoride (HF2-) ions.
- Established a versatile platform for PFAS waste transformation.
Conclusions:
- Electrochemistry offers a powerful and adaptable method for PFAS remediation and resource recovery.
- The developed strategy enables the conversion of persistent PFAS into valuable chemical feedstocks.
- This work advances the circular economy by transforming hazardous waste into useful reagents.
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