UB researchers bulid ultimate solar-powered water purifier
http://www.buffalo.edu/ubnow/stories/2017/02/gan-water-purifier.html[font face=Serif][font size=5]UB researchers bulid ultimate solar-powered water purifier[/font]
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Researchers used this floating solar still prototype for some of the experiments. The device, which they call a solar vapor generator, cleans or desalinates water by using the heat converted from sunlight. Image: University at Buffalo.[/font]
By CORY NEALON
Published February 2, 2017
[font size=3]Youve seen Bear Grylls turn foul water into drinking water with little more than sunlight and plastic.
Now, academics have added a third element carbon-dipped paper that may turn this survival tactic into a highly efficient and inexpensive way to turn saltwater and contaminated water into potable water for personal use.
The idea, which could help address global drinking water shortages, especially in developing areas and regions affected by natural disasters, is described in a
study published online Jan. 30 in the journal Global Challenges.
Using extremely low-cost materials, we have been able to create a system that makes near maximum use of the solar energy during evaporation. At the same time, we are minimizing the amount of heat loss during this process, says lead researcher Qiaoqiang Gan, associate professor of electrical engineering in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/gch2.201600003