Developing and Demonstrating Nanosensor Technology to Detect, Monitor, and Degrade Pollutants Funding Opportunity

July 31, 2024

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"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as part of its Science to Achieve Results (STAR) program, is seeking applications for research to develop and demonstrate nanosensor technology with the potential to detect, monitor and degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in groundwater or surface water that may be used as drinking water sources.

PFAS are long-lasting chemicals that are widely used in an array of consumer, commercial, and industrial products. Due to widespread use and persistence in the environment, PFAS are commonly found in air, soil, and water. There is evidence that continued exposure to PFAS, even at low levels, can cause harmful health effects.

Advances in nanoscience and nanotechnology have the potential to address the challenges of detection and treatment of PFAS-contaminated waters. Nanomaterials are smaller in size, larger in surface area, and are more easily manipulated and dispersed in water than conventional materials, making them useful for environmental sensing and management. Using nanotechnology may help to build better environmental sensors by reducing cost, improving efficiency and increasing selectivity. Nanotechnology may also be used to degrade PFAS in a way that does not create toxic by-products."