Scientists from Dalhousie University in Canada have introduced an innovative water purification device capable of producing clean drinking water at a remarkably low cost. This device, made from recycled tires, not only purifies water but also generates small amounts of electricity, offering a sustainable solution for communities lacking access to clean water.
This new device operates similarly to traditional solar still: it floats on a water source, absorbs water from below, and uses solar energy to evaporate and condense purified water on a collection dome. Each square meter of material in the device produces up to 3.67 liters of fresh water daily, surpassing the average individual’s daily water requirement. Scaling up this technology could involve either enlarging each device or deploying multiple units to serve larger communities.
One of the standout features of this device is its affordability. By using recycled tires, processed through pyrolysis to create a carbon-rich material, the device significantly reduces costs compared to similar systems that rely on costly metals like gold or silver. This carbon-based material is combined with plasmonic titanium carbides, which effectively absorb light and convert it into heat, driving the water evaporation process.
An added advantage of this solar still is its ability to generate electricity. Through the thermoelectric effect, the device can produce a small amount of power sufficient to run sensors that monitor water quality. This dual functionality sets it apart from other solar still designs, many of which focus solely on water production.
“This new design’s simplicity and affordability make it an ideal solution for developing regions and isolated areas,” said Dr. Mita Dasog, co-lead author of the study.
“We shouldn’t be making an expensive or very complicated device. It has to be easy to manufacture, last for a long time, and be easy to take apart and move.”
The research was published in the journal iScience.
Source: Dalhousie University