Microwave Remove Heavy Metals from Biowaste

Dec-07-19 An innovative process of removing heavy metals from biosolids using microwaves could lead to a new source of fertilizer.

The solid waste that remains after sewage treatment, called biosolids, often contains heavy metal contaminants such as lead—making the otherwise nutrient-rich material unfit for fertilizer. To keep the biosolids out of landfills and put them back into use, the team from Florida State University built on a theory and determined that microwave radiation will break the bonds that bind the heavy metals to the biosolids. This allows the heavy metals to be removed with less chemicals and without damaging the biosolids themselves.

Image Credit: Mark Wallheiser / FAMU-FSU College of Engineering - Professor Gang Chen (left) and research assistant Runwei Li in the lab in Tallahassee, Florida.

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