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Improved method using natural salinity gradients as source of energy
About
Worldwide energy needs demand the development of more sustainable sources of energy. Previous research has shown that natural salinity gradients can be used as a source of energy. Methods that use these gradients include pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) and reverse electrodialysis (RED). PRO is limited by the pressurization required to extract the energy from these sources while RED is limited by the electrical resistance in the water used as inputs. The University of Arkansas researchers have developed a process that greatly reduces the electrical resistance inherent in the process, thus improving power generation and reducing the amount of membrane required for power generation by a factor of one hundred. This process also makes RED much more advantageous when compared to the current technology of PRO. By using new technology for RED energy generation, a significant amount of energy can be created quickly and at a low cost.
Key Benefits
Improved power generation capabilities of salinity gradients‚ reduced overall membrane area required for RED processes
Applications
Oil shale and natural gas hydraulic fracturing‚ natural salinity gradient power generation facilities