Graphene could work wonders in water purification.
However, an innovative solution to this problem was proposed in this month’s issue of journal Nature Nanotechnology.
The authors, who belong to a group in the National Graphene Institute at the University of Manchester, developed graphene-oxide membranes capable of controlling pore size.
In order to avoid swelling, the sheets were stored under high humidity conditions and embedded in epoxy resin.
“This is the first clear-cut experiment in this regime.
We also demonstrate that there are realistic possibilities to scale up the described approach and mass produce graphene-based membranes with required sieve sizes.” The innovation is a low-cost, sustainable and reliable alternative to current bulky desalination systems.
When brought to fruition, it could be a game-changer in countries with poor access to drinking water.
This development could have far-reaching consequences including improving child health and empowering women who currently spend a significant part of their days gathering water.
Additionally, the United Nations forewarns that by 2025, 14% of the world will suffer from water scarcity.
Tunable graphene-oxide filters could potentially save the world from the impending water crisis.