Project partners: Biokolprodukter Global AB (Project leader), Växjö Småland Airport (Client), Linnaeus University (Research partner)
Grant: 600,000 SEK
Project period: 2025-11-01 – 2026-10-31
Contact person: Jacqueline Hellmann, Biokolprodukter Global AB
Linked to tasks: Reduce negative impacts on the water ecosystem, prevent and reduce the spread of hazardous substances, secure the supply and management of water, and adapt society to flooding and drought.
Purpose and goals
The project aims to develop and verify a filter solution, based on locally produced biochar, for PFAS purification at airports. PFAS are persistent, spread from historical firefighting exercises, and threaten both soil and aquatic environments. The need for cost-effective and sustainable solutions is particularly high for smaller airports. The goal is to produce a filter concept and verify the specific biochar’s adsorption capacity, regeneration potential, and prerequisites for reuse, thereby establishing the basis for a circular and commercial solution.
Expected effects and results
Our innovation combines high-performance biochar with circular processes: PFAS is adsorbed in the filter, the biochar is regenerated via pyrolysis, and the flue gas is treated at high temperatures to destroy the PFAS. The goal is for the regenerated biochar to be reused for soil improvement and contribute to carbon sinks, more drought-resistant soils, and improved nutrient retention capacity. The project focuses on water purification, but exchanges with actors studying PFAS immobilization in soil with biochar create synergies regarding the PFAS issue.
Planned structure and implementation
The project includes column tests and analyses for filter performance, development of a filter prototype together with the client, testing of regeneration potential in lab pyrolysis, a business model and climate benefit calculation, and a scientific publication together with Linnaeus University. The results will form the basis for a future full-scale demonstration at Växjö Småland Airport, followed by commercialization and implementation at other airports. The project combines technical innovation, climate benefit, circularity, and gender equality, with women and men in significant roles in all parts of the work.
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Goals and tasks
- Healthy lakes, watercourses, and groundwater
- Prevent and reduce the spread of hazardous substances
- Reduce negative impacts on the water ecosystem
- Resilient supply and management of water in society
- Adapt society to flooding and drought
- Secure the supply and management of water
