Nanomats: Sunlight-Powered Material Cleans Polluted Water

Ohio State University researchers have developed a novel material, dubbed 'nanomats,' that utilizes sunlight to purify water contaminated with pollutants. These thin, fiber-like strips are composed of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and copper, created using soft chemistry gels and electrospinning. Unlike traditional TiO₂ nanoparticles, which require UV light for photocatalysis, the copper-enhanced nanomats efficiently absorb sunlight to break down harmful substances in water and air. Professor Pelagia-Iren Gouma, the study's lead author, emphasizes the nanomats' potential as both a power generator and a water remediation tool, boasting the highest efficiency reported to date. The lightweight and reusable mats can float on water surfaces, making them ideal for cleaning industrial pollutants in developing countries and converting contaminated water sources into potable water. The technology is environmentally friendly, producing no toxic byproducts. While the team has the capability for large-scale production, commercial adoption hinges on industry interest. Researchers are currently focused on further optimizing the material for broader photocatalytic applications, including environmental remediation and solar-driven hydrogen production.