Researchers at Monash University have developed a groundbreaking water filtration membrane that effectively removes small PFAS molecules, setting it apart from more conventional water filters.

The team designed a beta-cyclodextrin (βCD) modified graphene oxide (GO-βCD) membrane with nanoscale channels that selectively retain PFAS while allowing water to pass through.

PFAS, or the ‘forever chemicals,’ are widely used in industrial and consumer products. They persist in the environment and pose potential health risks. PFAS contamination in Australia’s drinking water and waterways is a growing concern for communities, governments, and water service providers. A federal inquiry is examining the scale of its use and impact nationwide.

During tests, Monash researchers found that the membrane significantly outperformed traditional polyamide membranes, which typically remove around 35% of short-chain PFAS. The researchers also confirmed that the membrane creates an energetic barrier that prevents PFAS movement, effectively blocking contamination.

Monash PhD candidate and study author Eubert Mahofa emphasises the significance of PFASD filtration.

“Our approach solves this by filtering out and concentrating these harmful chemicals while still allowing water to flow through efficiently, making it a strong candidate to supplement the technologies for PFAS,” he says.

Dr. Sally El Meragawi, a co-researcher on the project, underscored the membrane’s potential impact on global water treatment strategies.

“By combining advanced materials with smart chemistry, we’ve created a highly efficient way to tackle this global communication issue,” Dr. Meragawi says.

“The unique structure of our membrane enables it to remove even the smallest PFAS molecules effectively.”

Dr. Meragawi says the Monash water filter is a breakthrough in PFAS filtration and can potentially revolutionise how PFAS is managed globally.