BPEC-DW · Development of novel technology based on a hybrid of bio-photo-electrochemical detritiation light-water for tritium separation and simultaneously H2 generation

Development of novel technology based on a hybrid of bio-photo-electrochemical detritiation light-water for tritium separation and simultaneously H2 generation

Tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, is a growing environmental concern due to its presence in water discharged from nuclear power plants. Existing technologies for tritium removal are energy-intensive and expensive, resulting in the release of large volumes of tritiated water into the environment. This poses significant long-term risks to ecosystems and human health. Moreover, Tritium is a key fuel for deuterium-tritium fusion reactors but is considered challenging due to its short half-life of 12.3 years. Since tritium is not naturally abundant and must be artificially produced, further research is urgently needed to develop innovative technologies that demonstrate the feasibility of tritium recycling and enrichment. The BPEC-DW project aims to develop an innovative and energy-efficient solution for the removal of tritium from water while simultaneously producing hydrogen as a clean energy source. BPEC-DW introduces a novel hybrid bio-photo-electrochemical (BPEC) system, combining two complementary processes: (i) Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting process (ii) Microbial isotope fractionation, where specially selected microorganisms preferentially process non-tritiated water, leading to the enrichment and separation of tritium. By integrating these processes into a single system, BPEC-DW seeks to enhance the efficiency of tritium enrichment. This project investigates the interactions between advanced photoactive nanomaterials based on TiO2 and BiVO4 and photosynthesis microorganism that are capable of water splitting, aiming to optimize their combined performance for isotope separation. The overall objective of BPEC-DW is to establish proof of concept for a hybrid bio-PEC process capable of tritium removal from light water while enabling simultaneous hydrogen generation. This hybrid approach leverages the strengths of both PEC technology, which utilizes solar energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, and microbial systems, which selectively process non-tritiated water, concentrating tritium. To achieve this, the project focuses on four specific objectives: (i) Synthesis of novel nanomaterials to enhance PEC water-splitting performance, (ii) Preparation and optimization of different microbes for isotope separation and catalysis H2 generation suitable to be coupled with PEC system, (iii) Design of hybrid bio-PEC system, (iv) Determine the separation efficiency of tritium and hydrogen production by hybrid bio-PEC systems, including elucidation of mechanisms and determination of reaction kinetics. The BPEC-DW project aligns with key societal, environmental, and industrial priorities, including scientific progress, economic benefits, and sustainable energy. It pioneers the integration of bio-based processes with PEC technology for isotope separation, advancing water treatment and isotope fractionation. The project offers an energy-efficient, cost-effective alternative to conventional tritium removal methods, reducing the environmental impact of tritium-contaminated water. Recovered tritium could also support nuclear fusion reactors, contributing to a closed-loop fuel cycle. Moreover, BPEC-DW aids clean water initiatives, nuclear safety, and public health by preventing tritium contamination of water bodies.

Текст от CORDIS, на английски · Данни: CORDIS, © Европейски съюз