IBM Solar Collector Magnifies Sun By 2000X and makes drinkable water

[natr0n]

A team at IBM recently developed what they call a High Concentration Photo Voltaic Thermal (HCPVT) system that is capable of concentrating the power of 2,000 suns, they are even claiming to be able to concentrate energy safely up to 5,000X, that’s huge.
The process of trapping the sunlight produces water that can be used to produce filtered drinkable water, or used for other things like air conditioning etc. Scientists envision that the HCPVT system could provide sustainable energy and fresh water to communities all around the world.

“Each 1cmX1cm chip can convert 200-250 watts, on average, over a typical eight-hour day in a sunny region. In the HCPVT system, instead of heating a building, the 90 degree Celsius water will pass through a porous membrane distillation system where it is then vaporized and desalinated. Such a system could provide 30-40 liters of drinkable water per square meter of receiver area per day, while still generating electricity with a more than 25 percent yield or two kilowatts hours per day. A large installation would provide enough water for a small town.”

http://www.collective-evolution.com/2014/02/21/up-for-grabs-ibm-solar-collector-magnifies-sun-2000x/

 

[Steevo]

Its not going to be until we are in dire need that we value our resources enough to put them ahead of our luxury items.

 

[HammerON]

Its not going to be until we are in dire need that we value our resources enough to put them ahead of our luxury items.

Sad but so true. Well stated.

 

[LAN_deRf_HA]

I'm presuming they mineralize the water. Distilled water wouldn't be that helpful otherwise.

 

[4ghz]

I probably won't see one of them in Michigan at all. Michigan is surrounded by largest freshwater system after all and it'd take extreme disaster to dry up all of the Great Lakes.

 

[Steevo]

I'm presuming they mineralize the water. Distilled water wouldn't be that helpful otherwise.

Since distilled water is corrosive to pipes and can cause lethal doses of copper from leaching pipes I am assuming they will be adding minerals and probably some chlorine or other sanitation agent if they would pipe it very far. But if it is meant for water use at point it wouldn't be required.