Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) have developed an innovative cationic covalent organic framework (COF) that efficiently detects and removes perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a harmful and persistent pollutant, from drinking water. This breakthrough addresses a global challenge of removing perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS), or "forever chemicals," which raised environmental and health concerns due to their accumulation in water and links to severe health risks, including cancer and developmental issues.