Repurposed Beer Yeast Encapsulated in Hydrogels Removes Lead from Water

MIT and Georgia Tech researchers develop a sustainable, low-cost water filtration method using surplus brewery yeast.

The yeast-based filtration system uses biosorption to bind and absorb heavy metals like lead from water.
Encapsulating the yeast in hydrogel capsules allows for easy removal and maintains mechanical stability.
The method is energy-efficient and could be scaled for use in homes and large water treatment facilities.
This approach could significantly benefit low-income communities with high lead contamination.
Researchers are exploring further applications, including capturing other contaminants like microplastics.