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Researchers Examine Role of Leafy Vegetables in Alternative Mining Methods

Researchers at the University of Queensland have shown that common Brassicaceae vegetables, such as kale and broccoli, can accumulate the toxic yet valuable metal thallium in their leaves. Using micro‑X‑ray fluorescence and X‑ray diffraction mapping, the team observed crystallised thallium chloride deposits along leaf veins, indicating a viable phytomining pathway. The findings suggest these crops could serve as sustainable tools for extracting thallium needed in medical devices, optical glass, and semiconductors while remediating contaminated soils. The study appears in Metallomics and involved international collaborators.