Introduction

  • The Dual-Sided Superhydrophobic Laser-Induced Graphene (DSLIG) evaporator is a desalination technology development by the scientists from IIT Bombay. This technology is designed to practically address the issue of freshwater scarcity on a global scale. 
  • It triumphs over multiple previous limitations of similar desalination systems and shows potential for large-scale application.

 

Integration of Solar and Electric Heating

  • The DSLIG evaporator uses a combination of solar and Joule heating (electric) to ensure efficient desalination. 
  • This combination is resilient even under conditions of fluctuating sunlight, therefore, guaranteeing consistent performance.

 

Superhydrophobic Surface

  • The surface of the DSLIG evaporator exhibits a superhydrophobic feature, akin to lotus leaf-like behaviour. 
  • This feature repels water, prevents salt deposition and thus enhances the long-term efficiency of the technology.

 

Material Composition

  • The DSLIG evaporator is made up of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and poly (ether sulfone) (PES) polymers. 
  • PVDF contributes the hydrophobicity of the evaporator's surface, while PES ensures mechanical stability.

 

Significance of DSLIG

  • The DSLIG offers an environmentally sustainable alternative due to its low carbon footprint and high efficiency. 
  • This makes it an ideal solution for treating industrial wastewater and saltwater discharges. 
  • The innovation aligns with worldwide efforts to promote green technologies and reduce environmental impact.

 

Note on Material Terms

  • PVDF is a tough, flame, electric and chemical-resistant plastic employed in the DSLIG's construction.
  • PES is a highly thermal-resistant, transparent thermoplastic used in the DSLIG formulation due to its temperature resistance qualities.
  • Hydrophobicity is a physical property in which molecules and water repel each other, significant in the evaporator's surface design.

 

Desalination Explained

  • Desalination is the process of removing dissolved salts from water sources such as seawater, brackish waters, highly mineralised groundwaters, and municipal wastewaters. 
  • The implementation of desalination renders these previously unusable water sources suitable for different uses, including human consumption, irrigation, industrial applications and many more.