The problem is so serious that more and more resources are being developed to measure pollution levels in cities, even the tech giant Google and Apple maps show these values in several cities around the world. Yes, it’s serious. In an effort to reduce air pollution and create clean, renewable energy, scientists have created a two-division photoelectrochemical cell that turns polluted air into hydrogen fuel. Hydrogen Fuel Scientists at the University of Antwerp and the University of Leuven in Belgium have discovered a new innovative solution for pollution. As they have developed a device that filters polluted air and through a photoelectrochemical cell produces energy. In one of the cell divisions air is filtered and purified using a photoanode. The process produces hydrogen, which is stored by a cathode behind the membrane separating the two divisions. This hydrogen can be stored and subsequently used as fuel. “In the past, these cells were primarily used to extract hydrogen from water. Now we find that it is also possible, and still more efficiently, with polluted air” Explained Professor Sammy Verbruggen, author of the study. As it stands, the device is just a prototype and with just a few centimeters can not solve the big problem of pollution, but the idea seems very promising.
A future without pollution?
Although this small device is still far from being useful against pollution, this type of innovation is the key to progress. Climate change is not slowing and efforts are needed to combat it. These efforts that several governments are already putting into practice, such as the case of China – which, while a major contributor to greenhouse gasses and air pollution have invested heavily in renewable energy to Emissions. Innovation and creative solutions like this air cleaning fuel cell are part of the answer. Change is possible, we just have to be willing to embrace it. So, what do you think about this new innovation? Simply share your views and thoughts in the comment section below.
