Environmental Clean Technologies Limited (ASX: ECT) has announced a significant acquisition that could enhance its environmental remediation capabilities. On September 26, 2025, the company entered into a binding share purchase agreement to acquire 100% of Terrajoule Pty Ltd, an Australian firm holding exclusive licensing rights to Rice University’s innovative flash joule heating (FJH) technology. This technology aims to remediate soil contaminated by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and heavy metals.
The acquisition is contingent upon several conditions, including Terrajoule finalising a formal licensing agreement with Rice University. This partnership aims to address the environmental and health challenges posed by PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to degradation in the environment.
Terrajoule’s FJH technology, developed under the guidance of Professor James Tour at Rice University, utilizes a rapid electrothermal mineralisation (REM) process. This involves applying a high-intensity electric pulse to contaminated soil, heating it to approximately 1,000°C within seconds. Laboratory tests have demonstrated over 96% defluorination efficiency and a remarkable 99.98% removal rate of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), one of the most hazardous PFAS compounds.
The widespread contamination of soil and water with PFAS has led to an increasing demand for effective remediation technologies. The FJH method not only destroys these harmful compounds but also improves soil quality without generating secondary waste, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.
In conjunction with this acquisition, ECT has raised $3 million through a placement of 50 million shares at an issue price of $0.06 per share. This funding will support the integration of the new technology and further development of ECT’s existing projects. Peloton Capital acted as the sole lead manager for the placement.
Following the acquisition, ECT will gain access to Rice University’s proprietary technology, positioning the company to leverage academic expertise in the commercial arena. Chairman Faldi Ismail expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating it is a pivotal strategic initiative for ECT. He emphasized the company’s commitment to developing impactful technologies that can tackle pressing environmental issues such as PFAS and heavy metal contamination.
Professor Tour also shared his excitement regarding the collaboration, highlighting the potential of the FJH technology to redefine soil remediation standards. He noted the positive laboratory results achieved by his team and expressed confidence in ECT’s capability to scale the technology for broader market application.
The acquisition aligns with ECT’s long-term strategy of diversifying its portfolio and investing in scalable technologies with significant commercial prospects. The company plans to maintain its focus on developing its patented COLDry technology, estimating approximately $471,000 will be allocated toward its current projects, alongside an estimated $400,000 for the development of the FJH technology over the next year.
As ECT embarks on this new venture, the company aims to contribute significantly to environmental restoration efforts while creating sustainable solutions for various industries. By harnessing advanced technologies like the FJH process, ECT is poised to make a meaningful impact on the pressing challenges posed by PFAS and other toxic contaminants.
