Emy Bensdorp takes on PFAS pollution by turning "toxic" soil into bricks

By Rima Sabina Aouf | dezeen | October 27, 2023

Read the full article by Rima Sabina Aouf (denzeen)

"Designer Emy Bensdorp has found a way to clean PFAS "forever chemicals" from contaminated clay soil by firing it into bricks as part of a project showcased at Dutch Design Week.

The acronym PFAS refers to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – a large group of chemicals that have been widely used to make items such as non-stick pans, umbrellas and waterproof mascara but are now known to be toxic.

These "forever chemicals" do not break down in the environment when they leak into our soils and waterways. But with her start-up Claybens, Bensdorp has proved she can eliminate PFAS chemicals from contaminated clay soil by firing it into bricks."