Water recovery through integrated passive separation and condensation systems
This innovative solution employs bio-inspired passive methods for significant water recovery from cooling towers, integrating novel separation and condensation stages to enhance efficiency and reduce energy input.
Overview
The proposed solution addresses the challenge of water loss in cooling towers by employing a novel integrated system that uses passive methods for separation and condensation. Inspired by natural atmospheric water harvesting processes, this technology aims to significantly enhance water recovery rates compared to traditional fog harvesting techniques. By minimizing material and energy inputs and extending operational life, the system offers an economically viable approach to water recovery.
Technical specifications
The technology consists of a three-stage process:
- Separation: Utilizes bio-inspired materials to concentrate the vapor stream and eliminate unnecessary components, reducing energy demands.
- Processing: Further processes the stream with passive cooling heat exchangers to condense water efficiently.
- Condensation: Employs bio-inspired materials to maximize heat transfer and water recovery, thereby minimizing capital costs.
Each component of the system has been individually validated at a small scale, and the integration is supported by a thorough technoeconomic analysis (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA).
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 2, the technology has been validated at a small scale with individual components. Future plans include integration, scaling, and comprehensive testing to advance its readiness further.
About Phycus Biotechnologies Inc
Phycus Biotechnologies Inc. specializes in the production of sustainable, bio-based chemicals for the cosmetics and personal care industries. Their primary innovation is Purolic Acid, a high-purity glycolic acid created through precision fermentation using renewable plant-based feedstocks, such as FSC-certified wood. Unlike conventional glycolic acid produced via petrochemical processes, which often contain trace contaminants like formaldehyde, the company's fermentation-based approach delivers a formaldehyde-free, biome-friendly alternative. By leveraging synthetic biology and AI-optimized workflows, the company aims to reduce carbon footprints and provide clean, traceable ingredients for high-performance skincare applications, adhesives, and polymers.
This technology addresses growing consumer demand for clean beauty products and sustainable supply chains. By offering a formaldehyde-free ingredient, Phycus helps cosmetic formulators improve product safety for skin health and the beneficial microbiome. The company has validated its fermentation and purification processes at scale, successfully transitioning from pilot-scale experiments to industrial production. Through strategic partnerships, such as their collaboration with TeselaGen Biotechnology to optimize fermentation workflows, Phycus is scaling its capacity to serve the global market with sustainable, bio-based specialty chemicals.
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