New heavy metals extraction process could reduce costs by 60%

Researchers at Florida State University said their method, involving the use of microwaves,  removed three times the amount of lead from biosolids compared to conventional means.

Published in the Journal of Cleaner Production, the team said the method was a possible engineering solution to help produce fertilizer and allow more people to live with clean soil and water. 

Biosolids, which are derived from sludge, can be composted and used as an ingredient in fertilizer.