Research Shows Water Lilies Absorb Poisonous Metals
Water lilies may prove to be a secret weapon in the fight against water pollution. Recent experiments have shown water lilies to be capable of absorbing great quantities of heavy, poisonous metals through their leaves and roots. This could allow the flowers to be used both to restore the purity of rivers and water sources polluted with poisonous heavy metals, and as a means for treating stagnant wastewater originating from household or industrial sources.
Research was conducted by a team led by Professor Elisha Tel-Or of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's Department of Agricultural Botany. The research team showed that water lilies thrive in water containing high concentrations of heavy metals such as cadmium, and are capable of absorbing metals to up to 16% of their dry weight. Master's students Eldad Sokolovsky, Tamar Shor, and Zvi Keilen also worked on the project.
Last year, a pilot operation was established at the Haifa municipal wastewater treatment plant to test the purification capabilities of the water lily. Results showed a marked reduction of the amount of cadmium in the sludge following exposure to the water lilies. Other experiments with industrial sludge also showed promising results in removing heavy metals such as mercury, nickel, and cobalt. Experimental work is still going on by Hebrew University researchers to improve and optimize the purification techniques.
Opened in 1925, The Hebrew University has more than 24,000 full-time students from over 70 countries around the world. The university has four campuses.
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