Core Viewpoint - A research team from DGIST in South Korea has developed a solar-powered artificial plant device that can purify soil contaminated with radioactive cesium, achieving over 95% purification within 20 days, providing a groundbreaking solution for nuclear accident remediation and contaminated farmland restoration [1][3]. Group 1: Technology and Innovation - The artificial plant device mimics the transpiration process of natural plants, operating solely on solar energy without the need for external power or additional water supply, significantly reducing operational complexity and costs [1][4]. - The device can be directly inserted into contaminated soil, where its "stem" structure extracts moisture containing dissolved cesium ions, which are then transported to the "leaf" section for purification [3][4]. Group 2: Environmental Impact and Efficiency - Traditional methods for soil cesium contamination remediation are costly and environmentally damaging, often involving the excavation of contaminated soil, which can lead to new ecological issues [3]. - The artificial plant technology drastically reduces the remediation time from months to just 20 days, with a purification efficiency exceeding 95%, making it particularly suitable for remote areas with weak power infrastructure [4]. Group 3: Sustainability and Reusability - The device features excellent reusability; once the adsorbent material in the "leaf" reaches saturation, it can be easily replaced, and the spent material can be cleaned and reused, minimizing long-term costs and reducing secondary waste generation [4].
韩国科学家研发太阳能人工植物,20天可净化95%放射性铯污染土壤