A research team led by Professor Yoo Jeong-mok at Kyunghee University has developed a high-efficiency solar thermal evaporator designed to revolutionize seawater desalination. This innovation aims to tackle global water scarcity while minimizing environmental impact and operational costs.
The new system uses cellulose, a biodegradable material derived from plants, to create nanofibers and aerogels that enhance water transfer and evaporation. By applying carbon dioxide laser carbonization and ice templating technology, the team engineered a porous structure that boosts solar absorption and water evaporation efficiency.
To further improve performance, the evaporator’s surface is coated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which increases buoyancy and reduces heat loss. In tests, the system achieved an evaporation rate of 1.9 kg/m²/h and an efficiency of 93.8% with pure water.
This technology offers a promising alternative to traditional desalination methods, which are often costly and environmentally taxing. The team believes their solar-powered solution could be especially beneficial for water-scarce regions, providing a sustainable and affordable source of clean water.
(Source: chosun Biz)