Packing up PFAS

PFAS is a group of so-called ‘forever chemicals’ widely used since the 1950s. After years of extensive use and industrial activity, the chemicals are now found all around the world in soil, water, wildlife and even people. PFAS consists of a very strong chemical bond (C-F), making them resistant to natural degradation while threatening human health and the environment. Can we clean up this mess? Emy Bensdorp applied a remediation technique called thermal treatment to transform PFAS-contaminated soil from three regions into clean bricks. By heating the soil to 900-1200 degrees, she destroyed the PFAS and created a ceramic material. The bricks and tiles can be used in construction.