Finalist award: £50,000
Winner award: £450,000
Led by: Cardiff University and Origin Aqua
Using novel hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) synthesis, the project aims to develop a low energy means of potable water treatment, that is free of disinfection by-products (DBPs).
Potable water disinfection is currently achieved by chlorination. However, chlorine has high embodied energy (carbon footprint) and creates DBPs, which are proven to damage human health /the environment.
By producing hydrogen peroxide in-situ (H2O2 synthesis within the water stream), water is disinfected with a much (100x) higher efficiency than chlorination, with zero DBPs, leading to a step change in water treatment.
The technology avoids high production/ transportation energy use, associated with commercial chlorination.
Our research team is making significant progress in using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to disinfect water. Early results show that H2O2 effectively eliminates harmful pathogens, and other contaminants. We are optimising the process for cost-effectiveness and scalability, aiming to provide a sustainable solution for clean water access.
Cardiff University was announced as one of 10 winners in the Water Discovery Challenge on 20 February 2024 – read more in the announcement blog.
