New York University researchers have developed a cutting-edge technology that extracts drinkable water from the sea while also storing electricity. This innovation is a response to the urgent need for solutions to combat water scarcity, especially in regions like Spain where water stress is unsustainable.
The system works by directing seawater into two pathways: one for salinization and the other for desalination. Through electrochemical reactions, sodium ions are extracted and freshwater is generated. By adjusting the time seawater stays in the system, drinkable water can be produced either in one go or in batches. The team utilized advanced 3D printing techniques from the NYU Maker Space during the development of this technology.
In addition to producing drinkable water, the system can also mix saltwater and freshwater to convert chemical energy into electricity. This dual functionality transforms the desalination unit into a battery, enabling storage of surplus energy from solar and wind power sources. Operating effectively across various temperatures without deteriorating, this technology holds great promise for sustainable energy storage and water desalination.
This innovative solution represents a significant advancement in addressing water scarcity challenges by integrating redox flow batteries with desalination technologies. It offers hope for a better future as it is efficient, dependable, and can be scaled up as needed to make seawater drinkable and address global increasing water problems.