New Technology Produces Green Hydrogen from Wastewater
- Details: Researchers from RMIT University, University of Melbourne, Australian Synchrotron, and University of New South Wales have developed a method to produce green hydrogen directly from wastewater, published in ACS Electrochemistry (DOI: 10.1021/acselectrochem.5c00064). The technology uses metals like platinum, chromium, and nickel in wastewater as catalysts, eliminating the need for purified water. Electrodes with absorbent carbon surfaces pull these metals, enhancing water-splitting into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy. Lab tests lasted 18 days with minimal performance decline, and the produced oxygen can enhance wastewater treatment efficiency by reducing organic content. Lead researcher Associate Professor Nasir Mahmood noted, “Harnesses wastewater’s inherent materials rather than requiring purified water or additional steps.” Dr. Muhammad Haris is seeking industry and government partners to scale up, testing across different wastewater types.
- Relevance: Involves leading research institutions like MIT (noted in user query) and aligns with technological advancements, potentially benefiting companies like ITM Power and McPhy Energy. It addresses global wastewater issues, with over 80% released untreated, causing ecological harm.
- Key Takeaway: This innovative technology not only provides a sustainable method for producing green hydrogen but also offers a dual benefit by improving wastewater treatment, potentially revolutionizing both energy production and environmental management.
- Source: Interesting Engineering