Evonik and Intrapore join forces to remediate PFAS contamination in groundwater
- Patented adsorption technology immobilizes PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals”
- Contaminated groundwater can be adsorbed on-site through environmentally friendly technology
- Evonik signs agreement for exclusive distribution in Europe of Intrapore’s innovative formulations
Hanau, Germany. Evonik and Intrapore GmbH have entered into an exclusive European distribution agreement for Intrapore’s soil and groundwater remediation technologies. These particularly include Intraplex®, a patented formulation to immobilize PFAS detected in groundwater. The move expands the portfolio of solutions offered by Evonik’s Active Oxygens business line for tackling a wide range of soil and groundwater contaminants.
Short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, PFAS are a family of widely used substances whose components break down very slowly over time — which is why they are often referred to as “forever chemicals.” Due to their prevalence and persistence, PFAS are present at low levels throughout the environment. Studies have shown that exposure to some PFAS may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals. Using activated carbon at a micrometer scale, Intraplex® can be applied right on-site to adsorb and contain PFAS contamination. This is particularly important for places which show high levels of PFAS that could otherwise seep into surrounding groundwater.
“We are very excited about this agreement,” says Mike Mueller, head of Evonik Active Oxygens’ soil and groundwater remediation business in the EMEA region. “Many of our customers are facing PFAS issues, and the Intrapore partnership boosts our ability to offer them customized solutions. After diligent research, we believe these innovative adsorption technologies represent best-in-class offerings.”
“Intrapore was founded in 2015 by a team of geoscientists and industry experts who are committed to a cleaner, safer, healthier future for the next generation,” said Dr. Julian Bosch, Managing Director of Intrapore. “This partnership with Evonik will help drive this objective by leveraging Evonik’s global network to bring our scientifically proven groundwater remediation products to the industries and customers that need them.”
Moreover, the on-site, or “in situ,” soil and groundwater remediation procedures favored by both companies are low energy and climate friendly. As opposed to classic pump-and-treat methods, where contaminated groundwater is pumped out of the soil, treated, and then replaced, Evonik and Intrapore treat contamination directly at the source. The result is minimally invasive, long-lasting, and has a very low energy and carbon footprint.
The territory of Evonik’s and Intrapore’s exclusive distribution agreement covers the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the European Free Trade Association States.
For more information on Evonik’s portfolio of soil and groundwater remediation solutions, visit: evonik.com/remediation
For more on Intraplex®, visit: intrapore.com/en/intrarem/intraplex
Company information
Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The company is active in more than 100 countries around the world and generated sales of €18.5 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.49 billion in 2022. Evonik goes far beyond chemistry to create innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for customers. About 34,000 employees work together for a common purpose: We want to improve life today and tomorrow.
About Smart Materials
The Smart Materials division includes businesses with innovative materials that enable resource-saving solutions and replace conventional materials. They are the smart answer to the major challenges of our time: environment, energy efficiency, urbanization, mobility and health. The Smart Materials division generated sales of €4.83 billion in 2022 with about 7,900 employees.
About Intrapore
Intrapore offers the latest generation of in situ remediation products. Our patented particle suspensions have been independently validated in the lab and in field applications, and allow us to remediate even the most challenging forms of environmental contamination – targeted and minimally invasive. Our company, located in Essen, Germany, was founded in 2015 by geoscientists and industry experts with years of experience in site and contaminated area remediation. Our goal is to provide clean water and healthy soils for future generations.
Disclaimer
In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.