breakthrough technology erasing forever chemicals
capture and destroy
Our technology empowers industrials with a new kind of PFAS remediation system. With our optimized UV reactor paired with our novel absorbent, industrials can confidently erase PFAS from wastewater.
our solution
An in-stream device that breaks down PFAS using a catalytic absorbent material and UV light.
why Coflux
The Coflux reactor removes the need for disposal of hazardous waste, costly energy or pressure inputs, or large systems.The Coflux reactor is compact, scalable, and economical for operators to drop-in to current wastewater treatments.
work with us
We are looking for partners who are interested in erasing forever chemicals in their wastewater streams.
who we are
Our vision is a world where communities have PFAS-free environments and drinking water.We know it'll take a lot to get there. At Coflux, we strive to develop an accessible, sustainable, and reliable PFAS destruction technology to protect the environment and communities across the world.
passionate, experienced water innovators
Alec Ajnsztajn
Chief Executive Officer & Chief Science Officer
Dr. Alec Ajnsztajn received his PhD from Rice University, with a focus on materials science and nanoengineering. Alec also helped lead and pass the Proposition B in Houston, supporting reformed voting structure for the area’s regional government, demonstrating passion and leadership for local issues.
Jeremy Daum
Chief Technology Officer
Jeremy Daum is a PhD candidate at Rice University, with current research focusing on exploring scalable production methods for nanomaterials for applications including batteries, semiconductors, and water purification. Jeremy was recently accepted as an Innovation Fellow at Rice University and accepted into the NSF’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program.
Dana Vazquez
Chief Commercial Officer
Dana Vazquez graduated from the Rice Jones Graduate School of Business with her MBA. Dana has, over 8 years of experience in sustainability and consulting – she is also on the Houston Clean City Commission, exploring how the city can more sustainably manage its waste and environmental resources.
Advisors
Rafael Verduzco
Pulickel Ajayan
Marc Davidson
toxic legacy of forever chemicals
what are forever chemicals?
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of manufactured chemicals which contain a strong carbon-fluorine bond. They are often referred to as 'forever' or 'everywhere' chemicals, due to their prominence in everyday products. They're commonly used in products we use everyday - including food and CPG packaging, waterproof clothing, hygiene products, and cookware.They don't break down naturally in the environment, so they've come to build up inside of our bodies and the environment over time.
how do they affect us?
PFAS has been found in over 99% of the human population - chances are you have detectable levels of PFAS in your blood!PFAS have been tied to a number of health impacts, including cancer, heart and liver disease, hormone imbalance, infertility, and birth defects.
how did we get here?
The manufacturers that make and use forever chemicals don't have widely adopted ways to remove or destroy them from wastewater. When this water discharges, it continues to contaminate our soil, water, and eventually gets into our drinking water.
Coflux is here to help industrials destroy PFAS and have a positive impact on communities everywhere.
Activate: Introducing Cohort 2024
Rice entrepreneurship lab unveils teams for 2024 Lilie Summer Venture Studio Accelerator
Coflux competes as a semi-finalist in MIT's 2024 Global Climate and Energy Prize
3 Houston sustainability startups score prizes at Rice University pitch competition
Houston clean tech startup pitch competition names winners at annual CERAWeek event
Rice U.’s Office of Innovation awards inaugural One Small Step Grants
