Scientists from South Korea have developed a new water purification system that can quickly and efficiently filter out microplastics. Most importantly, the polymer used is relatively inexpensive with excellent absorption performance and good photothermal properties.
In one experiment, over 99.9 percent of pollutants were removed from water in just 10 seconds.
Microplastics have flooded the world, finding their way into the human food chain. While some traditional carbon-based filters can filter out microplastics, they have limitations – absorption rates are slow and they are not energy efficient.
The Korean team’s detection system requires lower power levels, making it ideal for solar-based use. This is especially useful for developing countries where the electricity supply is unstable.
