Researchers at the University of Minnesota are focused on tackling a big environmental challenge: removing PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” These substances are found in many everyday items, such as non-stick pans, stain-resistant carpets, and firefighting foam.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals made of carbon and fluorine, which makes them incredibly tough to break down in nature. Recently, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency took a significant step by banning PFAS in 11 types of products, aiming for a full ban in the state.
Bo Hu, a researcher at the University, is working on a promising solution called phytoremediation. This process uses plants to draw contaminants like PFAS from the soil through their roots. PFAS can often be found in fertilizers, particularly those made from treated sewage, which means their presence in farming areas is a widespread issue.
Hu noted that while most studies focus on removing PFAS from drinking water, cleaning up soil is equally important. He is studying common crops like wheat and corn to see how they can help reduce PFAS levels on farms.
To support this work, Michael Smanski is genetically modifying plants to enhance their ability to absorb PFAS. Meanwhile, graduate student Riley Lewis is developing tiny particles to aid this absorption. Since PFAS doesn’t easily mix with water, it often lingers in soil instead of moving into plants. Lewis explains that the goal is to create particles that help free PFAS from the soil, allowing it to be taken up by plants.
The researchers are testing both carbon-based and silica-based particles. Lewis describes silica particles as having a “wiffle ball structure,” which could help trap PFAS inside and facilitate its movement into plants.
Interestingly, the particles used in the study attract PFAS due to their positive charge. Once trapped, the PFAS can be more easily absorbed by the plants. This method is efficient for farmers because it doesn’t require extra work on their end.
Another angle being explored involves fungi. Jiwei Zhang is examining how certain fungi can break down PFAS. His lab has found that while PFAS are toxic to many organisms, some fungi actually thrive in their presence, with an absorption rate of 50-80% in lab settings.
Zhang has noted that white rot and brown rot fungi, common in forests, show the best responses to PFAS. This discovery could lead to innovative ways to keep our soil and water clean, possibly creating natural systems for managing stormwater or improving soil conditions.
Overall, these research efforts highlight the potential for plants and fungi to be part of a solution in cleaning up PFAS from our environment, hopefully leading to a healthier ecosystem.
