Decarbonized energy is one of the major concerns of our century in the field of ecology. In this idea, hydrogen is a path that is being explored in various sectors. Very recent advances will accelerate progress in the production of this gas.
The main problem with hydrogen is that it is largely produced from fossil fuels. The resulting CO2 emissions are therefore considerable. Nevertheless, a team of researchers from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), accompanied by other Canadian experts, have developed several very relevant solutions. What is the project ? The creation of low-cost photoreactors capable of producing hydrogen or drinking water directly in solar parks or from… your roof!
artificial photosynthesis
This process involves taking advantage of the chemical reactions that take place when sunlight comes into contact with a material. KIT researchers have succeeded in identifying several photocatalytic materials that absorb photons to extract energy from them.
Basically, these materials would break down water into hydrogen or oxygen. They would also be able to produce CO2 neutral fuels just with water and carbon dioxide. This technology existed, but was reserved for specialized laboratories as its cost was high. The objective is to lower the price of this technology, so that it can easily equip new infrastructures, such as house roofs for example.
Profitable production thanks to efficient photochemical reactors
Thanks to a new design, the researchers developed cheaper and efficient reactors, more suitable for mass production. To put it simply, they consist of a photocatalyst, integrated into the heart of the reactor. This catalyst also contains the reagents necessary for the production of hydrogen.
For this to work, light from the sun must be directed into the photocatalyst with minimal loss, regardless of the position of the sun. To achieve this, the researchers chose to design the assembly with polymer panels covered with a layer of aluminum, which increases reflectivity. The transport of light is therefore optimized throughout the day.
This innovation is an important step in the great march towards the decarbonization of energy. Other challenges will remain, including the development of hydrogen storage methods and the establishment of an efficient distribution network. The technology is still promising. Maybe one day, a large part of the roofs will be equipped with such devices?
Sources: Tech Xplore, IEA
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