Water purification and hydrogen production using artificial photocatalysis. Free Technical Library News

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Water purification and hydrogen production using artificial photocatalysis

23.11.2023

Researchers from the University of Cambridge have unveiled an innovative solar-powered device that can simultaneously convert polluted or ordinary seawater into hydrogen fuel and clean drinking water.

A new device based on solar energy and using artificial photocatalysis represents a significant step in solving global problems with drinking water and fuel, especially in third world countries.

The scientists embedded a photocatalyst that absorbs ultraviolet light onto a nanostructured carbon mesh, which in turn absorbs infrared light. This approach is designed to stimulate the formation of water vapor, which is used by the photocatalyst to produce hydrogen. The porous carbon mesh, treated to repel water, allows the photocatalyst to move freely and remain above the water's surface, minimizing exposure to contaminants. This device configuration also improves solar energy efficiency. Researchers were able to emulate transpiration technology, imitating the process of water moving through a plant and its evaporation from above-ground parts.

The scientists then tested their invention using real open water sources, including the River Cam in central Cambridge and turbid industrial wastewater from paper production. As a result, the device maintained 80% of initial performance even after 154 hours in artificial seawater.

According to the researchers, since the photocatalyst is isolated from contaminants in the water source and remains relatively dry, the device is able to maintain its operational stability over a long period of time.

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