Current Research Topics
Current Research Topics
Solving PFAS Pollution Using Chemistry
The high stability of C-F bonds in PFAS requires innovative and practical technologies both for the remediation of already contaminated environments and for the prevention of future pollution by fluorinated chemicals.
Since 2016, we have built solid records in understanding and developing PFAS degradation technologies. We have continuously improved the 254nm UV method to be one of the most cost-effective technical option for PFAS destruction at ambient conditions (e.g., EE/O = 1.5 kWh/m3 for PFOA).
At UCR CEE, Prof. Jinyong Liu also helped multiple faculty start their PFAS research by sharing data, resource, and equipment. Beyond UCR, our lab has become a hub connecting outstanding PFAS researchers of various expertise in both academia and industry.
Currently, we are working on multiple projects for solving this grand challenge in various aspects:
[1] UV-based PFAS destruction (method development, mechanistic elucidation, solutions for challenging matrices);
[2] Ex-situ and in-situ technologies for groundwater remediation;
[3] Detection and analysis of novel PFAS pollutants.
For more information about PFAS pollution (we do not endorse the contents and viewpoints):
Since 2016, we have built solid records in understanding and developing PFAS degradation technologies. We have continuously improved the 254nm UV method to be one of the most cost-effective technical option for PFAS destruction at ambient conditions (e.g., EE/O = 1.5 kWh/m3 for PFOA).
- UCR News 2022 for proof-of-concept of 100% destruction:
- UCR News 2024 for 100% destruction of AFFF:
At UCR CEE, Prof. Jinyong Liu also helped multiple faculty start their PFAS research by sharing data, resource, and equipment. Beyond UCR, our lab has become a hub connecting outstanding PFAS researchers of various expertise in both academia and industry.
- UCR News 2023:
- Agilent Technologies Report 2024:
- UCR News 2024:
Currently, we are working on multiple projects for solving this grand challenge in various aspects:
[1] UV-based PFAS destruction (method development, mechanistic elucidation, solutions for challenging matrices);
[2] Ex-situ and in-situ technologies for groundwater remediation;
[3] Detection and analysis of novel PFAS pollutants.
For more information about PFAS pollution (we do not endorse the contents and viewpoints):
- The Intercept Series: The Teflon Toxin (linked) and Bad Chemistry (linked)
Catalytic reduction of oxyanions in water
Perchlorate is a widespread and toxic anion in groundwater. Recently, discussions of perchlorate on Mars have also been renewed. For example:
However, most chemical reduction technologies developed thus far still have one or more of the following limitations: (1) low activity, (2) exotic reducing agents, (3) incompatibility with water, and (4) poor stability or longevity.
Based on the knowledge gained from previous studies on oxorhenium complex-based catalysts (see Publications), we aim to develop new biomimetic transition metal complexes and heterogeneous catalysts with the following features: (1) high activity, (2) high robustness, (3) easy preparation, and (4) low cost.
Our research involves a suite of intriguing directions such as (1) design, synthesis, and characterization of transition metal complexes with desired structure and activity, (2) characterization of metal species in heterogeneous support for aqueous phase reactions, (3) rational re-design for continuous improvement of activity, stability, and longevity of catalyst to be integrated with existing water treatment processes. We are strongly motivated by the unprecedented catalyst performance in 100% aqueous environment, the exciting discoveries in catalytic process control, and the unexpected new chemistry of the coordination metal complexes.
- Perchlorate on Mars: A chemical hazard and a resource for humans (linked)
- Perchlorates on Mars enhance the bacteriocidal effects of UV light (linked)
However, most chemical reduction technologies developed thus far still have one or more of the following limitations: (1) low activity, (2) exotic reducing agents, (3) incompatibility with water, and (4) poor stability or longevity.
Based on the knowledge gained from previous studies on oxorhenium complex-based catalysts (see Publications), we aim to develop new biomimetic transition metal complexes and heterogeneous catalysts with the following features: (1) high activity, (2) high robustness, (3) easy preparation, and (4) low cost.
Our research involves a suite of intriguing directions such as (1) design, synthesis, and characterization of transition metal complexes with desired structure and activity, (2) characterization of metal species in heterogeneous support for aqueous phase reactions, (3) rational re-design for continuous improvement of activity, stability, and longevity of catalyst to be integrated with existing water treatment processes. We are strongly motivated by the unprecedented catalyst performance in 100% aqueous environment, the exciting discoveries in catalytic process control, and the unexpected new chemistry of the coordination metal complexes.
2. Research Equipment (by Feb 2017, to be updated with new photos)
Glovebox : for handling hygroscopic or air-sensitive chemicals
New fumehood installed for synthetic works
Ion chromatography system for a variety of anions
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Glovebag: for handling aqueous and air-sensitive samples
A portion of NMR spectrometers at UCR Chemistry Department
HPLC equipped with UV-vis and conductivity detectors
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3. Gallery of the Perchlorate Reduction Project
Rotavap with automatic vacuum control
Typical synthesis setup
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Flash chromatography (above) and a final product (below).
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