#Japan #Tokyo #Kurita #FREDsense #PFAS Measurement

Kurita's Strategic Collaboration with FREDsense

In a significant advancement aimed at improving water treatment facilities, Kurita Water Industries Ltd., headquartered in Nakano, Tokyo, has teamed up with FREDsense Technologies Corp., based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The collaboration focuses on the deployment and popularization of the mobile PFAS measurement kit known as FRED-PFAS™ within Kurita's water treatment systems. This partnership reflects a growing recognition of the need to address environmental challenges associated with PFAS, a group of synthetic organic compounds used in diverse industrial and consumer products due to their water- and oil-repellent properties, as well as their durability against heat and chemicals.

Understanding PFAS and Its Threat

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have come under scrutiny in recent years as some variants have been linked to numerous health risks, including carcinogenic effects and potential impacts on childhood development. With increasing research and awareness regarding these hazards, regulatory bodies in Europe and North America have begun to tighten water quality regulations. In Japan, legislation is anticipated to define permissible levels for particularly harmful substances such as PFOA and PFOS, leading to mandatory testing and monitoring by 2026.

This increasing regulatory pressure has catalyzed rising demand for accurate real-time monitoring of PFAS concentrations in industrial water usage and wastewater management. Kurita views the PFAS issue as one of the pressing social challenges related to water and the environment, committing to the collection, analysis, and resolution of problems associated with PFAS pollution in various business sectors.

Rapid and Accurate Measurement with FRED-PFAS™

As part of this initiative, Kurita has initiated collaboration with FREDsense to test the operational accuracy and practicality of the FRED-PFAS™ kit using real wastewater samples. Early evaluations have showcased the kit's capability to deliver high analytical precision in PFAS concentration assessments. Notably, while traditional laboratory analyses would take weeks—often requiring sample transport and preparation—the FRED-PFAS™ kit promises results within just a few hours, a turnaround that significantly enhances operational efficiency in monitoring water quality.

As both companies progress, they plan to integrate comprehensive analysis results and previous studies with Kurita's extensive expertise in water treatment technologies and industry-specific knowledge. The goal is to implement the FRED-PFAS™ kit into Kurita's equipment offerings, ensuring widespread availability and usage across various sectors.

Commitment to Sustainable Solutions

Kurita has a long-standing history of leveraging their knowledge of water treatment to provide innovative technologies, products, and business models that deliver new value to customers and society at large. Through this partnership with FREDsense, Kurita continues its mission to address social issues related to water and the environment, striving towards sustainable solutions and a greener future.

Images:

• - Left: The FRED-PFAS™ mobile analysis kit.
• - Right: Kurita team members conducting analysis using the kit.

Reference Links:

• - FREDsense Technologies Corp. Official Website (English only)

Note: FRED-PFAS™ is a trademark of FREDsense Technologies Corp.