Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become a major global concern due to their persistence, mobility, and risks to human health. Compounds such as trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) are now detected in surface water, groundwater, and even treated drinking water across Germany and worldwide.
Fig 1: Places where TFA is found (Image source: Montrose Environmental)
To address this challenge, instrAction GmbH has partnered with ISWA – University of Stuttgart (Institut für Siedlungswasserbau, Wassergüte- und Abfallwirtschaft) and Carbonit GmbH in a joint research project launched in August 2025. The study evaluates advanced filter materials for removing key PFAS compounds, including PFOA, PFHxA, PFBS, and TFA, from drinking water.
Within this collaboration, Carbonit has provided filter cartridges that incorporate instrAction’s selective absorber resin. The project, led by Dr. Ing. Behnam Askari Lasaki, under the supervision of Prof. Harald Schönberger and Prof. Patrick Bräutigam, examines the combined performance of engineered activated carbon and absorber technology in point-of-use (POU) systems.
POU filters are increasingly valuable where centralised treatment is insufficient or contamination occurs within distribution networks. They are also gaining importance in industrialised regions, providing households and industries with reliable protection against PFAS and heavy metals.
The findings of this collaboration will support the development of cost-effective, high-performance filtration solutions, helping make clean and safe water accessible to everyone.
Fig. 2: Trifluoroacetate (TFA) origin and exposures in Germany (Image source: TZW).