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China Solar Desalination: Water Cheaper Than Bottles!
2 Jul
Summary
- New 3D solar structure boosts desalination efficiency eightfold.
- Energy consumption for evaporation reduced by nearly 50%.
- Produced water costs are estimated to be lower than bottled water.
Scientists in China have engineered a novel three-dimensional solar structure that dramatically enhances the efficiency of desalination, a process crucial for addressing global freshwater shortages. This innovative material, detailed in the journal Advanced Materials, features tightly linked polymer chains with hollow shells, leading to an evaporation rate eight times higher than previously recorded for solar thermal evaporation.
The new structure exhibits remarkable solar absorption capabilities and significantly reduces the energy needed for evaporation, by nearly 50%. This breakthrough has led to the development of an outdoor desalination device that, using natural sunlight, produces 20 liters of freshwater daily. The water quality consistently meets World Health Organization drinking water standards.
Beyond drinking water, the desalinated water produced by this technology has proven effective for agricultural irrigation. Researchers successfully supported the full growth cycles of various crops, including spinach, corn, and Chinese cabbage, in a demonstration plot. They project that within two years of operation, the cost of water from this system will be less than that of commercial bottled water, offering a sustainable and affordable solution for regions grappling with water scarcity.
