Water treatment

Palladium is a very promising catalyst for a process of purifying groundwater contaminated by certain toxic substances that have previously been difficult to remove. The contaminants in question are termed halogenated volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are some of the most pervasive groundwater pollutants in the United States. These tend to be hydrocarbons that are used as solvents, degreasers, and used in the production of paints and adhesives.