Reviewed by Lexie CornerApr 9 2025
Researchers at Monash University have developed a new filter designed to address the limitations of conventional water filters, which are often ineffective at removing smaller PFAS molecules.
Image Credit: Monash University
The researchers developed a water filtration membrane using a beta-cyclodextrin (βCD) modified graphene oxide (GO-βCD) design. The membrane features nanoscale channels that selectively capture small PFAS molecules while allowing water to pass through.
PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are widely used in industrial and consumer products, leading to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. The increasing contamination of Australia’s drinking water and waterways with PFAS has raised concerns for governments, communities, and water service providers, leading to a current Federal inquiry into the extent of their use and impact nationwide.
In laboratory tests, the Monash membrane outperformed traditional polyamide membranes, which typically remove only about 35 % of short-chain PFAS. The research team also confirmed that the membrane creates an energy barrier that effectively prevents PFAS from passing through, reducing contamination.
Eubert Mahofa, the lead author of the study and a Ph.D. candidate at Monash University, highlighted the significance of this advancement in PFAS filtration.
PFAS are difficult to manage because they dissolve easily in water and can spread far from their original source, making contamination challenging to contain and remediate. Removing small PFAS molecules from water has been a major hurdle for existing filters.
Eubert Mahofa, Study Lead Author and Ph.D Candidate, Monash University
“Our approach solves this by filtering out and concentrating these harmful chemicals while still allowing water to flow through efficiently, making it a strong candidate to supplement the technologies for PFAS destruction,” said Mahofa.
Dr. Sally El Meragawi, co-researcher on the project, emphasized the potential impact of the membrane on global water treatment strategies.
By combining advanced materials with smart chemistry, we’ve created a highly efficient way to tackle this global contamination issue. The unique structure of our membrane enables it to effectively remove even the smallest PFAS molecules.
Dr. Sally El Meragawi, Study Co-Researcher, Monash University
“Our approach also paves the way for future membrane technologies tailored for removing targeted contaminants in drinking and wastewater treatment applications. It also retains key nutrients in water, making it an attractive method for use alongside traditional nanofiltration systems,” said Meragawi.
The membrane was fabricated using shear alignment printing, a scalable technique suitable for large-scale industrial production of graphene oxide films.
While conventional polyamide membranes are less effective at blocking smaller PFAS molecules, tests and simulations indicated that the Monash-designed membrane forms a strong barrier that prevents PFAS passage, even under varying temperatures, while still allowing efficient water flow.
“This breakthrough in PFAS filtration has the potential to revolutionize how PFAS contamination is managed globally, with applications ranging from landfill leachate treatment to industrial wastewater purification,” said Professor Majumder.
“Our technology opens new possibilities for developing advanced nanofiltration membranes tailored to remove specific molecular species by selecting appropriate binding chemistries,” said Professor Majumder.
The ongoing collaboration between Monash University, Clean TeQ Water, and its subsidiary, NematiQ, which specializes in graphene, has been crucial to the development and commercialization of this innovative membrane technology.
The development of a modified graphene membrane for PFAS removal represents an exciting advancement in water treatment. NematiQ looks forward to collaborating closely with Monash University to bring this innovative technology to market.
Peter Voigt, CEO, Clean TeQ Water and NematiQ
“We’re excited to continue our partnership with NematiQ to advance the commercialization of this promising graphene membrane technology. Collaborations like this are key to translating research into real-world impact,” said Professor Majumder.
Journal Reference:
Mahofa, E.,et al. (2025) Manipulating Intrapore Energy Barriers in Graphene Oxide Nanochannels for Targeted Removal of Short-Chain PFAS. ACS Nano. doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.4c15413.