RMIT University researchers develop magnetic powder to remove microplastics from water

Researchers at RMIT University in Australia have developed an innovative, reusable magnetic powder capable of removing over 95% of microplastics and nanoplastics from water within one hour. The technology is designed to capture extremely small particles, down to 30 nanometers, which typically bypass standard municipal filtration systems.

In addition to plastics like polyethylene and polyester, laboratory tests indicate the powder can remove large molecules of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), heavy metals, and pharmaceutical residues such as ibuprofen. Developed in partnership with the Canadian firm One Eye Industries, the process uses industrial magnets to extract the pollutant-laden powder from wastewater, allowing for the immediate recovery and reuse of the material without creating new waste streams.

Practical tests conducted on industrial laundry wastewater, which is heavily contaminated with synthetic fibers and chemical surfactants, showed the system successfully removed over 88% of polyester microfibers. The technology offers a scalable solution for cleaning industrial wastewater and municipal water sources to prevent contaminants from entering ecosystems or drinking water supplies.