Scientists use light to clean wastewater with ceramic foam formula

Researchers at Fraunhofer IKTS in Dresden have developed innovative UV-activated ceramic foam materials designed to purify industrial process water and wastewater by breaking down persistent pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, industrial chemicals, microplastics, dyes, and PFAS. These multifunctional foam ceramics use photocatalytic oxidation, where UV light exposure generates reactive radicals on the foam’s functionalized surfaces that decompose organic impurities without producing harmful by-products or requiring additional oxidizing agents like ozone. The foam’s highly porous structure (up to 90% open porosity) provides extensive surface area for catalyst coatings and excellent light penetration, enabling efficient pollutant degradation even with thin catalyst layers that are stabilized to prevent washout. Fraunhofer IKTS is actively developing complete wastewater treatment systems incorporating these ceramic foams, optimized reactor designs, and energy-efficient UV LEDs tailored to client needs across industries including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, paper, dairy, and textiles. By enabling on-site treatment, the technology prevents harmful substances from