Synergistic, adaptive, continuous-flow, and low-carbon solar evaporation and electrochemical treatment (SEET) system-a combined numerical and experimental study

A synergistic, adaptive, continuous-flow, and low-carbon solar evaporation and electrochemical treatment (SEET) system was proposed and researched for energy-efficient and sustainable decentralized water treatment. The hybrid system integrated anodic oxidation with solar evaporation to enhance organic degradation and optimize mass transport through the photo-thermal effect. A novel four-step numerical simulation method was proposed to design the system and examine the water evaporation process and mass transport of salts and organics. A case study was implemented, revealing that system parameters related to evaporation and organics degradation exhibited strong interdependence. The relationships between these parameters were well established, and adaptive water flow rate ranges were also identified to prevent salt accumulation while ensuring efficient organic degradation. The adaptability demonstrated the system's potential for use in varying influent scenarios. A prototype of the system was constructed, and the experimental data matched well with the simulation results. In the experiments, the local water temperature reached 45-50 degrees C in the continuous-flow mode under one sun condition, resulting in a 2-5 times reduction in outlet organic concentrations compared to traditional electrochemical systems. Energy analysis confirmed that the system primarily relied on clean and sustainable solar energy, maintaining a low carbon footprint. In conclusion, this innovative approach offers significant potential for addressing the clean drinking water crisis and enhancing pollutant removal in future decentralized water treatment systems.

Automated summary

A synergistic, adaptive, continuous-flow, and low-carbon solar evaporation and electrochemical treatment (SEET) system was proposed and researched for energy-efficient and sustainable decentralized water treatment. The system integrated anodic oxidation with solar evaporation to enhance organic degradation and optimize mass transport. A novel four-step numerical simulation method was used to design the system and examine the water evaporation process and mass transport of salts and organics. A case study showed strong interdependence between system parameters and established adaptive water flow rate ranges for efficient organic degradation.