What do modern desalination plant plumbing and 1st century BC Roman cooking pots have in common?
But archaeological excavations revealing centuries of human history show us: Ancient civilizations had a dilemma they were still trying to solve. It is the buildup of scale left on metal objects by water.
This same handicap that has existed since humans first used technology will soon be a thing of the past. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). They have spent the last two years developing A coating on a metal surface that prevents the accumulation of deposits left by water.
“Ancient civilizations lived with a dilemma that we are trying to solve.”
How are such deposits accumulated?
As water cools or evaporates, its dissolving capacity decreases and undissolved mineral salts tend to separate from the liquid and adhere to walls and surfaces. Over time, pipe inefficiencies develop This is due to negative factors such as loss of flow and changes in internal pressure.
Solutions in Development: Nanotextured Surfaces
The work of MIT scientists is based on the following developments: Nanoscale texturing Apply inside the piping and apply lubricating liquid. Lubricant remains trapped between nanotextured layers Capillary action prevents water from escaping, and the minerals it leaves in its wake cannot slide off and accumulate.
“This innovation saves up to 10 times waste accumulation and increases the efficiency of water treatment plants.”
Advantages of nanotextured surfaces
Thanks to this innovation, accumulation of residues Up to 10x reduction for increased efficiency For example, in a water treatment plantIt also acts as a barrier to cooling and condensation in the heat exchanger.
On the other hand, more uniform flow results in lower maintenance costs in gas and oil facilities, minimize environmental impact, According to MIT, a small amount of lubricant is to ensure optimal operation of the pipeline during the service life of the material.
A solution could mean the end of the problem Humans have lived together for hundreds of years.
sauce: Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
