Kyoto University develops new polymer material for efficient removal of heavy metals from wastewater.

Kyoto University has developed a new type of polymer material that can efficiently capture toxic metal ions in wastewater. This material mimics plant metallothioneins, specifically binding to heavy metals such as cadmium. Through nanotechnology, the material has high integration and significantly improved processing efficiency. Experiments show that 3 milliliters of this material can reduce the concentration of cadmium ions in 300 milliliters of wastewater to below safety standards within one hour. This technology offers a new approach for wastewater treatment and drinking water safety.

Plant metallothioneins: A type of protein in plants that can specifically bind and isolate heavy metal ions, protecting plants from their harmful effects.