Scientists Find Way to Break Down Dangerous “Forever Chemicals” in Water

They’re called “forever chemicals” because they don’t go away. Found in things like nonstick pans, cosmetics, waterproof jackets, and even dental floss, these chemicals — known as PFAS — can linger in the environment and in our bodies for thousands of years. Almost 98% of people in the U.S. have them in their blood right now.

And that’s a problem. PFAS have been linked to health risks like reduced fertility, developmental issues, autoimmune diseases, and even cancer. Cleaning them up has been nearly impossible — until now.

Breaking the Unbreakable

A team of scientists in Australia has developed a new process that can destroy PFAS molecules and turn them into harmless byproducts, including fluoride (the same stuff that helps protect your teeth in toothpaste).

They used a special material called cadmium indium sulfide, which works like a light-activated helper. When exposed to visible light, it releases reactive particles called “free radicals” that attack PFAS and break their ultra-strong chemical bonds.

Under the right conditions, this method destroyed about 99% of PFOS, one of the most common PFAS chemicals.

From Pollution to Products

The best part? The leftover materials from this process aren’t toxic waste — they could actually be reused in things like fertilizer additives and toothpaste.

“This research is a critical step toward safer communities and cleaner ecosystems,” said Cameron Shearer, the lead researcher from the University of Adelaide.

What’s Next?

The scientists say the system still needs to be improved to handle large amounts of contaminated water. But the hope is that one day it could be added to water treatment plants, helping clear dangerous chemicals from the water supply before it ever reaches our taps.

For now, it’s a big step forward in the fight against a chemical problem that’s been haunting us since the 1940s.