Reator Oscilatório Ativado por Luz Visível para Processos Duplos: Produção de H2 e Tratamento de Águas Residuais

The main objective of LIGHT2H2O is to successfully validate a new concept of a light- induced-OFR. The groundbreaking reactor can also be implemented across a wide range of industries (e.g., fertilizers, paper, olive oil, etc.) that produce high levels of organic effluents and require energy in their processes, thus making their production cleaner and more sustainable. To achieve LIGHT2H2O goal, a set of partial objectives has been defined: Objetive 1. To develop efficient and long-duration novel light-responsive catalysts with reduced band-gap energy and improved photo-physicochemical properties for fast electron transfer. LIGTH2H2O will employ mostly low-cost and non-critical carbon and nitrogen earth-abundant raw materials based on g-C3N4. Objective 2. By employing ML tools, LIGHT2H2O aims to significantly expedite the development of photocatalysts, achieving unprecedented efficiency through the prediction of their performance and optimisation of their properties. This strategy will not only facilitate the finding of new materials but also fosters innovative pathways for sustainable energy solutions, turning challenges into opportunities for environmental and technological progresses. A key focus will be on the detailed investigation of advanced photocatalysts, which are inherently more selective for H2 production, thereby mitigating the risks associated with the formation of potentially dangerous H2 and O2 gas mixtures. Objective 3. To immobilise the apex catalysts resulting from laboratory experiments and ML insights. The powder catalysts with proved efficiency in standard reactors for H2 production will be immobilised in supports design by 3D printing. This strategy not only facilitates the effective utilisation of the catalyst but also ensures the structural integrity and accessibility of the catalytic sites, thus enhancing the overall performance for H2 and UWW treatment. Objective 4. To harness the potential of UWW as a feedstock for efficient and sustainable hydrogen (H2) production, which will promote biomass recycling and aim for a circular economy process. This will promote enhancing water quality treatments and the generation of a green fuel. Will also avoid the addition of sacrificial agents (electron donors) commonly required in the conventional water splitting to promote H2 generation. This strategy targets to reduce effluent toxicity in 60% and to achieve Carbon Oxygen Demand (COD) removals > 50% by degradation of organic pollutants from UWW. Objective 5. To transfer the benefits of an OFR in a groundbreaking photoreactor development, enhancing the efficiency of light and mass transport through innovative 3D-printed catalyst structures and optimised flow conditions. This strategy is expected to significantly improve photon utilisation and overall reactor performance. By employing visible-light-responsive catalysts immobilised on 3D supports and fine-tuning the reactor's fluid dynamics, LIGHT2H2O aims to achieve an unprecedented apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) of > 90% for hydrogen production. Objective 6. To thoroughly assess the performance of the developed materials and process the implementation from environmental, societal, and economic viewpoints, LIGHT2H2O will employ a range of multidisciplinary methodologies. This comprehensive evaluation will not only provide a detailed overview of the proposed system but also pinpoint areas for enhancement, aiming to competing against existing technologies.