MINNEAPOLIS — Using UV technology, Daikin America’s Decatur facility has been involved in the world’s first large-scale demonstration of high-throughput PFAS destruction, according to a news release from Claros Technologies.

The milestone represents another breakthrough in efforts to eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from industrial wastewater streams, Claros officials said.

“We are deeply honored to be partnering with DAI on this groundbreaking initiative,” said Michelle Bellanca, CEO and co-founder of Claros Technologies. ‘Their vision, leadership, and willingness to invest in next-generation solutions made this achievement possible.

“This pilot not only proves that large-scale PFAS destruction is viable today, but it also sets a new standard for environmental sustainability across the manufacturing sector.

“Claros is proud to have supported DAI in demonstrating what’s achievable when innovation meets bold, forward-thinking action.”

During the pilot, Claros’ proprietary UV-photochemical process achieved over 99.99% destruction of targeted PFAS compounds, successfully treating more than 50,000 gallons of wastewater a high-flow system capable of achieving hundreds of gallons per minute.

Since 2012, Daikin America has ensured a 99.9% reduction in large chain PFAS in its wastewater treatment process, the news release said. This pilot program with Claros demonstrates that large-scale PFAS destruction of long, short, and ultra-short chain PFAS using UV technology is not only technically feasible but also economically viable.

With the success of the pilot demonstration, the companies said they are moving forward with plans for additional pilot work and collaboration. This next phase of pilot work will focus on further enhancing the flow and destruction capabilities of the technology, the release said.