Functionalized low-cost graphene sponge electrodes for sustainable water treatment and complete defluorination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

FOCUS4PFAS is an innovative project (Marie Curie grant) focused on the problem of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water, including long- (>C6) and highly polar shorter-chain (C2–C6) homologues, as well as newly introduced PFAS. The project aims to develop special graphene sponge anodes tailored for electrochemical degradation of all PFAS. Short-chain PFAS are of particular concern due to their significant mobility in the environment and the difficulty of removing them from contaminated water, compared to long-chain PFAS. Their high mobility allows them to reach water bodies of critical importance for human exposure, such as drinking water resources. Moreover, short-chain PFAS are often formed as unintended byproducts during the manufacturing of long-chain PFAS. Beyond water cleanup, FOCUS4PFAS seeks to address PFAS contamination through smart, cost-effective, and environmentally sound solutions. Through the GRAPHEC initiative, the project aims to create a sustainable water treatment technology that is simple, affordable, and applicable in diverse settings—from large urban centers to remote communities.

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