Introduction

The invention consists of a fully stand-alone miniaturized and modular photocatalytic system that uses solar energy for waste water treatment and contemporary hydrogen production.

Technical features

The invention refers to a fully stand-alone miniaturized and modular photocatalytic system which, exposed to solar radiation, is able to promote the reduction of the organic load contained in the treated water, allowing the simultaneous direct conversion of solar energy into hydrogen. The technology is based on photoexcitation of suitably modified tungsten trioxide electrodes, able to stably work in aqueous environment under solar illumination. This process involves a lowering of the plant’s operating costs, generates clean fuel with high intrinsic value and has a reduced environmental impact compared to current systems. The device object of the present invention, rendered impermeable, can operate in a completely autonomous manner directly inside the water to be treated and does not need any external power supply or electrical control system thanks to the implemented structure.

Possible Applications

• Treatment of water deriving from agricultural or industrial processes and urban waste water;
• Ground water purification;
• Production of clean fuel such as hydrogen from solar energy.

Advantages

• Waste water treatment and contemporary hydrogen production;
• Low operating costs and reduced environmental impact compared to current systems;
• Waterproof system, autonomous and without any electrical connection to the outside;
• Use of a wider range of the solar spectrum thanks to Tungsten Trioxide.