Aquagga, a startup focused on destroying “forever chemicals,” is set to commercialize its technology after five years of development. The company, based in Tacoma, Washington, has appointed Dhileep Sivam as its new CEO. Sivam has a strong background in technology and sustainability, having previously worked at Intellectual Ventures and with Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy organization. He is excited to work on a mission that he finds personally meaningful and impactful.
Founded in 2019, Aquagga has been testing and building devices that can eliminate 99% of the PFAS present in contaminated water. PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” have been added to a variety of products for their water-repelling properties, leading to widespread contamination of drinking water. Aquagga’s technology is relatively compact, operates at lower temperatures and pressures, and can effectively treat small PFAS compounds. The company has tested its devices at various cleanup projects and is preparing to launch its commercial device, the Stampede system.
Aquagga operates as a for-profit, public benefit corporation and has raised over $1 million from investors. The company has also received federal grants and contracts, as well as customer revenue exceeding $10 million. Aquagga plans to pursue a Series A round of funding next year to further support its growth and expansion. The team is focused on providing a solution to the ongoing challenge of PFAS contamination in water sources, aiming to make safe drinking water a fundamental right for all individuals.
Sivam is excited about the management roles he will play at Aquagga, including leading the team and engaging with customers to understand their needs. The company plans to sell and lease its devices, offering a centralized location for PFAS destruction where customers can have their contaminated water treated. The Stampede system, which will be the size of a standard shipping container, combines high temperatures, pressure, and caustic conditions to break down PFAS into non-toxic components. Aquagga is set to begin shipping the devices by the end of next year.
The team at Aquagga is passionate about their mission to address PFAS contamination and is committed to creating a positive social and environmental impact. The company takes a cooperative approach to sustainability, aiming to work together with other organizations in the field. Aquagga’s unique approach to PFAS destruction has the potential to make a significant difference in providing clean and safe drinking water for communities across the globe. By combining innovative technology with a focus on environmental impact, Aquagga is poised to become a leader in the fight against “forever chemicals.”
