Researchers at The Ohio State University have developed a new material that, by harnessing the power of sunlight, can clear water of dangerous pollutants. Solar fuel systems that use titanium dioxide nanoparticles can cause significant challenges to implementation, including low efficiency and the need for complex filtration systems. So, the researchers added copper to the nanoparticles, and the new structures, called nanomats, can now absorb enough light energy to break down harmful pollutants in air and water. These lightweight, easy-to-remove fiber mats can float and operate atop any body of water and are even reusable through multiple cleaning cycles. Because the nanomats are so effective, the researchers envision that they could be used to rid water of industrial pollutants in developing countries, turning otherwise contaminated rivers and lakes into sources of clean drinking water.
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