Grantee Research Project Results
Desalination using 2D MoS2 Nano-solar Evaporator
EPA Grant Number: SU840162Title: Desalination using 2D MoS2 Nano-solar Evaporator
Investigators: Lee, Woo Hyoung , Jung, Yeonwoong , Hwang, Jae-Hoon
Current Investigators: Lee, Woo Hyoung , Hwang, Jae-Hoon , Jung, Yeonwoong , Stoll, Stephanie , Watson-Bajorek, Amaya , Osorto, Brando , Yoo, Changhyeon , Han, Sang Sub
Institution: University of Central Florida
EPA Project Officer: Spatz, Kyle
Phase: I
Project Period: December 1, 2020 through November 30, 2021
Project Amount: $25,000
RFA: P3 Awards: A National Student Design Competition Focusing on People, Prosperity and the Planet (2020) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: P3 Awards , P3 Challenge Area - Safe and Sustainable Water Resources
Description:
A global increase in water scarcity at alarming rates has raised questions regarding the sustainability of fresh water supplies. On a global scale, a combination of various methods including water management and reduced water consumption, domestic and industrial wastewater treatment and desalination of saltwater are currently being used to cope with this problem. Though there is more than enough available saltwater on earth to compensate for the fresh water scarcity, current desalination technologies (membranes) are physically and economically limited. The primary objective of this proposal is to develop and apply a two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 layers-integrated hygroscopic nanofilm from the concept of biomimicry for improved solar evaporation and desalination technology. Furthermore, the ability of the 2D MoS2 layer-based solar evaporator allows for target object specifications to be met at a low-cost with the advantages of photo-thermal material stability and longevity of the technology. The proposed 2D MoS2 layer-based solar evaporator will be applied to seawater desalination systems for clean water production.
Objective:
The research objectives of this study are to: (1) develop a 2D MoS2 layer-based solar evaporator for water evaporation; (2) evaluate thermal evaporation performance of a 2D MoS2 layer-based solar evaporator; and (3) analyze a lab-scale solar-water desalination system for clean water production. The novel solar evaporator based on innovative 2D MoS2 nanomaterials that we propose to explore will positively impact the planet by utilizing two abundant renewable resources, seawater and sunlight, and offering an alternative to rapid aquifer depletion, which is an only increasing issue as population density grows. A rapid consumption of groundwater causes aquifer depletion or saltwater intrusion, such as in the southeastern regions of the U.S. The impacts of climate change are evident nationwide, especially in the abundance of droughts in semi-arid regions in the West. The positive impact on people encompasses the security in, and health benefits from, a secure, dependable, and safely managed water service. During the implementation of the research project, community approval will be sought in order to maximize economic benefits (prosperity) through urban development in the surrounding area. Overall, this novel method of solar evaporation-driven water desalination will provide a unique and sustainable solution for accessible drinking water and smart irrigation.
Approach:
The project aims to be a strong development for the smart water and agricultural/irrigation sector using an innovative 2D MoS2 layer-based solar evaporator for desalination of seawater with minor energy consumption. This makes it ideal for diverse coastal communities, by understanding their respective needs, available resources, and limitations. In addition, the research will contribute to a better understanding of both water treatment and photo-thermal technologies, facilitating opportunity for further optimization as a sustainable solution to the growing water crisis around the world. This sustainable approach demonstrates potential for safe, point-of-use water treatment for decentralized communities (SDWA: Safe Drinking Water Act – Section 1442 (D)).
Expected Results:
The goal of this project is to provide an immediate solution to fresh water scarcity, in addition to affordable water access for industrial and agricultural purposes, facilitating the development of sustainable, coastal communities. The proposed application of the innovative photothermal nanomaterial (MoS2) offers an effectively productive method for desalination, requiring minimal environmental or economic costs. The performance of the MoS2-based solar evaporator will be evaluated extensively under various harsh conditions, including high salinity, possible foulants, and actual seawater samples collected off the coast of Cocoa Beach, located on the east coast of Florida. Evaluation of the system will be conducted regularly, based on the weekly internal and cross-laboratory meetings, Phase I report and II application, and the 2020 EPA P3 National Sustainable Design Expo.
Publications and Presentations:
Publications have been submitted on this project: View all 1 publications for this projectJournal Articles:
Journal Articles have been submitted on this project: View all 1 journal articles for this projectSupplemental Keywords:
Desalination, MoS2, irrigation, solar evaporation, biomimicry, water resources, water treatment, water purificationProgress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.