Synthesis of nano graphene for saving energy in water desalination

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the role of nano graphene dispersion on the rate of evaporation of saline water to save energy consumption during thermal desalination. The effect of various operating conditions including: current density, sulfuric acid concentration, electrolysis time and temperature were studied to optimize graphite dissolution. The produced nano graphene particles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The TEM-photographs proved that; the particles of nano graphene are spherical with diameter ranged from 10 to 41 nm. Increasing current density from 100 to 150 mA/cm2 at cell voltage 0.3 V and 60min. electrolysis time, increases graphite dissolution by 32%. From the results, it is clear that the selected dose for saving maximum energy was 10 g/l. This study indicates that graphene is one of the best nano material that can maximize the heat transfer efficiency.

Keywords

• Nano-graphene
• Graphene conductivity
• Thermal distillation
• Thermal desalination