Researchers create solar leaf that makes hydrogen from seawater
Scientists at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore built a solar device that creates hydrogen while cleaning toxic seawater.
Researchers combined a solar cell, electrolyzer, and treatment system into one unit to process contaminated water effectively. This new design proved stable for over seventy two hours during extensive laboratory testing phases.
The anode breaks down hydrazine instead of releasing oxygen, which saves energy and stops harmful chlorine formation. This special catalyst contains iron, cobalt, and chromium to resist corrosion in harsh salty environments.
The cathode uses lead halide perovskites to absorb light and generate electricity without needing an external power source. Protective layers of epoxy and titanium foil shield the sensitive material from damaging moisture in the water.
Tests showed the system lowered toxic levels from one half molar to five parts per billion within thirty hours. The device produced hydrogen at a rate of four hundred sixty six micromoles per square centimeter per hour consistently.