Functionalized nanoporous semiconductor system for integrated water purification and chloramine removal

Overview

This solution addresses the dual challenge of chloramine removal and water hardness reduction through a novel integrated system. The technology combines functionalized nanoporous semiconductor structures with co-developed sensors and automated monitor-and-control functions. Designed to meet or exceed impurity removal, flow rate, temperature, and size requirements, the system targets flow rates of 100–1500 ml/min in a compact form factor. Potential applications include point-of-use water treatment, commercial filtration systems, and industrial water purification where compact, self-contained solutions are needed.

Technical specifications

Core technology components:

• Functionalized nanoporous semiconductor structures engineered to decompose chloramines while reducing water hardness
• Co-developed chloramine and hardness sensor based on semiconductor surface-sensitive technology for high-precision selective detection
• Self-contained monitor and control system providing automated feedback to the purifier
• Scalable design targeting <10 cm³ system size with flow rates of 100–1500 ml/min

Team capabilities brought together:

• Nanoporous semiconductor fabrication and design expertise (Piner)
• Water systems and purification knowledge (Ikehata)
• Systems and circuit design, data analysis, and feedback control (Aslan)

Design flexibility:

• Nanoporous structures adaptable across pore sizes (micro- to nanometer) and geometries (sponge to channel)
• Proven selective detection of a wide range of impurities with high precision
• Standard scaling approaches applicable to compact system integration

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at an early-to-mid stage of development, building on demonstrated expertise in nanoporous semiconductor design, water purification systems, and control electronics. A dual-track validation approach is planned: the first track focuses on optimizing the nanoporous structure with chloramine-decomposing functionalization and sensor design, while the second track addresses water purification system scaling to target flow rates. Final system integration (purifier, sensor, and feedback) will be embedded across both tracks to ensure all operating requirements are met. The team has prior results demonstrating selective impurity detection and system implementation, providing a foundation for advancing toward a fully integrated prototype.