3D-printed photocatalysts to generate hydrogen with sunlight 

This project arises from the need to find solutions to two current problems: pollution from microplastics and the energy crisis. Specifically, the described photocatalytic device is applied in areas such as the remediation of contaminated water or the production of green hydrogen.

The omnipresence of microplastics in water poses a problem for human and industrial consumption. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) require more efficient microplastic capture and degradation systems than conventional ones. Therefore, the proposal presented has a clear output in this field, since, thanks to the flexibility provided by 3D printing, it could be implemented in machinery of different structures and sizes. Furthermore, its use does not require an additional energy source.

The transition to green and renewable energy sources is becoming a necessity for much of industry, from transportation to production systems. The use of hydrogen as a fuel is already a reality, but large-scale production of green hydrogen is not. In this sense, photocatalytic devices are potential candidates to replace the methods currently used to produce high amounts of hydrogen that rely on fossil fuels, such as steam methane reforming or gasification.

In short, energy and water are indispensable resources in most of today’s markets and, therefore, this project has a place in a wide range of sectors: industrial, construction, transportation and agri-food are just some examples.