Lummus and Element Six Unite to Tackle PFAs in Wastewater Treatment

Lummus Technology, a prominent global provider of process technologies and advanced energy solutions, has formed an exclusive global partnership with Element Six (E6), a leader in Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) diamond technology. This collaboration will utilize a cutting-edge solution to address the pressing global challenge of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) destruction. By combining Lummus Technology’s expertise in process engineering with E6’s innovative CVD diamond solutions, the partnership aims to develop an effective method for eliminating these persistent environmental pollutants.

This partnership merges Element Six’s advanced patented boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrochemical oxidation technology with Lummus’ proprietary electro-oxidation technology and system integration for water and wastewater treatment. Through joint testing using free-standing BDD electrodes, Lummus and Element Six have successfully achieved the destruction of both long and short-chain PFAS compounds. Unlike metal electrodes plated with BDD, free-standing BDD electrodes facilitate the high current densities necessary for effectively eliminating short-chain PFAS, demonstrating the superior performance of their combined technologies.

Leon de Bruyn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lummus Technology emphasized the critical global challenge of eliminating PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from water, a challenge that Lummus and Element Six are committed to tackling. He highlighted that through the collaboration of their technologies, they are positioned to deliver efficient, scalable, and effective solutions for destroying these harmful chemicals. This joint effort aims to safeguard public health and protect the environment, ensuring a safer and cleaner future for generations to come.

Siobhán Duffy, CEO of Element Six, expressed enthusiasm for the profound impact that their partnership with Lummus Technology will have on various aspects of daily life. She highlighted how their diamond-based electrochemical solution addresses the critical global issue of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination. This innovative technology promises significant benefits, including environmental improvement and enhanced public health. Duffy commended both the Element Six and Lummus teams for their decade-long dedication and effort in overcoming technical challenges to develop this groundbreaking solution, which aims to contribute to a better and more sustainable future for everyone.

Lummus and Element Six are advancing their collaboration by engaging with customers to apply their innovative BDD electrochemical oxidation technology to various real-world scenarios. This technology is being utilized to address a range of practical challenges, showcasing its effectiveness in diverse applications. Their ongoing efforts aim to implement this cutting-edge solution in sectors requiring efficient and reliable PFAS destruction, demonstrating significant progress and potential in addressing environmental concerns.

PFAS, a broad category of synthetic fluorinated organic compounds, have been manufactured and extensively used in industrial and consumer applications. Often dubbed 'forever chemicals,' PFAS persist in the environment and do not decompose naturally, posing significant health risks such as cancer, reduced immunity, and infertility with prolonged exposure. As a result, regulatory bodies worldwide, including those in Australia, U.S., UK, Europe, and the Middle East, are implementing measures to control PFAS levels in drinking water and consumer products.