Along with reaffirming De Beers’ leadership in natural diamonds, we are also looking to double down on Element Six’s decades of expertise and leadership in synthetic diamonds for industrial applications.
As part of this, we are unlocking new opportunities through strategic partnerships in areas where synthetic diamonds-enabled solutions can deliver significant technological advances.
Tackling forever chemicals in water
In 2024, Element Six and Lummus Technology announced a global partnership aimed at addressing the challenging issue of 'forever chemicals' in water. These substances, known scientifically as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are synthetic fluorinated organic compounds that have been extensively used in industrial applications and consumer products since the 1930s. PFAS can be found in everyday items such as carpets, cookware, and even dental floss. Due to their persistent nature, they do not naturally degrade in the environment and, when exposure levels are high, they can lead to significant health risks including cancer, decreased immunity, and infertility.
As a result, the presence of PFAS in the environment poses a serious threat to public health and safety on global scale. Governments worldwide, including those in the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, are implementing regulations to control the presence of these compounds in drinking water and consumer products.
Creating a groundbreaking solution
Element Six’s patented boron doped diamond (BDD) electrochemical oxidation technology, paired with Lummus' patented electro-oxidation technology and system integration for water and wastewater treatment, provide an efficient, scalable and viable method to destroy PFAS.
The partnership has successfully tested the combined technologies, demonstrating their effectiveness in eliminating 'forever chemicals' from water. This collaboration is already making strides with customers, addressing numerous real-life applications for this innovative technology.
Paving the way for a cleaner, safer world
By combining their respective core competencies through this partnership, Element Six and Lummus Technology are uniquely positioned to tackle the global challenge of forever chemicals. Their solution is an example how synthetic diamond-enabled technologies can not only safeguard public health but also protect the environment for future generations.