Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID ND-2024-Ji-1

Biodegradation of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Water

Institute: North Dakota
Year Established: 2024 Start Date: 2024-09-01 End Date: 2025-08-31
Total Federal Funds: $12,360 Total Non-Federal Funds: $13,070

Principal Investigators: Yun Ji

Project Summary: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of emerging contaminants that pose a significant threat to water quality due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and adverse health and environmental impacts. Conventional treatment methods are often expensive and ineffective in removing PFAS compounds from water sources, which highlights the need for sustainable remediation solutions. Microbial and enzymatic degradation offer promising avenues for cost-effective and environmentally friendly PFAS remediation. This proposal explores the potential of these biodegradation approaches for sustainable water treatment. We aim to identify microorganisms and enzymes capable of degrading PFAS compounds, optimize treatment processes, and evaluate the efficacy of biodegradation in large-scale water treatment applications. Additionally, factors influencing enzyme activity will be assessed to develop optimal conditions for enzymatic degradation. Through collaboration with experts in water treatment, analytical chemistry, and environmental science, this study will contribute to eco-friendly remediation strategies for mitigating PFAS contamination in water sources.