Graphene-Oxide based Membranes for PFAS Removal and Analysis
Dr. Christian Halbig
M.Sc. Jan Soyka
Project Leader
Project Member
PFAS are a class of materials with useful yet problematic properties. Their chemical stability makes them useful for inert and dirt-repellent surface coatings. However, PFAS enter the environment through industrial waste and other pathways, and there is practically no natural way for them to degrade. Furthermore, PFAS are known endocrine disruptors that can severely impact humans and other life forms at concentrations in the ng/L range.
GO-Fluor is a special graphene oxide-based membrane that can be used to safely remove short- and long-chain PFAS traces from water. Through selective leakage, dissolved minerals can pass through the membrane. Thus, high water flux is achieved in combination with excellent PFAS removal properties.
The idea for GO-Fluor emerged in November 2025 at the “2025 Forum Junge Spitzenforschung – Wasser & Wassermanagement” event. There, a related topic concerning the use of graphene oxide (GO) for safe water purification in small, highly mobile devices was awarded fourth place. GO-Fluor is currently being developed in the laboratories of Prof. Dr. S. Eigler, in a subgroup led by Dr. Christian Halbig. It will be part of a future spin-off under the CarboNano.EU label. GO-Fluor is currently participating in the “From Lab to Market Challenge 2026,” organized by Chemstars.
