Open Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need

Airmen exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has become a growing health concern within the USAF. PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been used in industrial and defense products for decades (Teflon, Goretex, Scotchguard) and include items such as water-repellant clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, firefighting foams, and various defense products. Aqueous fire-fighting foam (AFFF) has been in widespread use for training exercises throughout the USAF for many decades on hundreds of Air Force Bases. PFAS leaches into soil, water and air, infecting the environments they encounter. PFAS do not breakdown (the carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest in chemistry), so they remain in the environment and can be ingested in humans and animals within the area through food and the water supply. PFAS have serious health impacts and can lead to harmful effects such as kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease and weakened childhood immunity, among many other serious medical conditions. Onvector is an innovative cleantech company creating high-impact water and wastewater solutions at the nexus of energy and water. Our Plasma Vortex technology has the highest levels of performance and the greatest energy efficiency for commercial and industrial facilities. As wastewater and groundwater concerns continue to