Visible light activated photocatalytic nanogrids for water purification

Overview

This technology offers a novel approach to water purification through 3D, self-supported photocatalytic nanostructures known as Nanogrids. Designed to break down pollutants and disinfect water using sunlight or ambient visible light, the innovation was recognized by the Director of the National Science Foundation as one of three major breakthroughs across all NSF-funded research. The materials are intended to serve as a next-generation solution for contaminant removal, combining photocatalytic activity with a structural form that can be deployed in real-world water treatment scenarios.

The core value proposition is the ability to harness visible light, rather than requiring ultraviolet sources, to drive redox reactions that degrade pollutants into harmless byproducts. This opens the door to energy-efficient, sunlight-powered water treatment for applications ranging from industrial wastewater cleanup to decentralized drinking water disinfection.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Self-supported 3D nanogrid architecture enabling photocatalytic activity without the need for separate substrates or supports
• Visible light activation through optimized TiO2 and CuWOx photocatalyst compositions
• Pollutant degradation via redox reactions that convert contaminants into benign components
• Hybrid membrane integration planned with cellulose acetate (CA) membranes to enhance disinfection performance
• Broad-spectrum disinfection capability targeting biological contaminants such as bacteria and viruses

How it works:

The nanogrids are composed of nanostructured photocatalytic materials whose phase content, morphology, grain size, and shape have been engineered for high efficiency. When exposed to visible light, the catalysts generate reactive species through photoelectrochemical processes, measured using a three-electrode photoelectrochemical cell. These reactive species drive the breakdown of organic pollutants and inactivation of microorganisms in water.

Technology readiness level

The technology has undergone preliminary testing and pilot studies for water cleanup, with earlier work focused on optimizing TiO2 and CuWOx photocatalysts for decomposing benzene in water. Advanced materials characterization has confirmed the phase content, morphology, and relative phase distribution of the best-performing catalysts. Photoelectrochemical measurements have validated that the materials are highly efficient visible-light-activated catalysts.

Future validation efforts will pair the nanogrids with cellulose acetate membranes in a hybrid configuration to test disinfection against indicator bacteria and surrogate viruses. These studies will leverage resources from Ohio's Water Institute to advance the technology toward broader deployment readiness.