Periodic Reporting for period 1 - STRUCTURED (Sprayable, Thin & RobUst Carbon Nanofiber ComposiTe for JUmping DRopwisE ConDensation)
Berichtszeitraum: 2021-10-01 bis 2023-03-31
After the fabrication protocol was established, we worked on how to make the process scalable. This required cost and time considerations. Since the application of our coating requires a spray-based process, appropriate considerations should be made for the coating application to industrial condensers, due to their shape. For this reason, we purchased an industrial HVLP spray gun and we demonstrated the spraying of our material through this apparatus at a larger surface compared to the prototypes that we have tested so far. We have also given a redesign of the process for fabrication based on commercial scaled-up systems. Finally, we constructed a new prototype copper tube coated with our material. Relevant to the longevity of our material, our goal was to perform additional durability tests relevant to industrial condensers. We performed a one-month test at the University College London under atmospheric conditions. The result that was most of the surface of the coating sustained dropwise condensation. However, some visual degradation was observed, but it could originate from the type of mounting that was selected to hold the sample in place.
On the business and management side, we created a website, designed a logo, and established an initial business plan. We also took several actions toward forming a spin-off company. These included discussions with the technology transfer department, attendance of workshops, preparation of a pitching deck, coaching sessions with entrepreneurs, etc. Finally, we have mitigated the risks caused by the lab closure periods during the pandemic and we believe that we have fulfilled all our goals in the original time framework.
Due to the enormous and growing capacity of power plants and the demand for energy, a tiny increase in efficiency translates to a significant reduction in energy consumption. In 2019, coal consumption for the electric power sector amounted to 490 million metric tons, the combustion of which generates GHG as well as air pollutants with a direct impact on human health. The possibility to increase energy production without the corresponding increase in the use of fossil fuels thus brings about a lasting impact on reducing our footprint towards adverse climate change, as well as indirect economic losses due to air pollution, notably in public health and tourism. A successful technological transfer of our developed coating from the research domain to the industry suggests a sustainable reduction in energy consumption in most condensing applications. The estimated cost of the nanocomposite coating, based on retail prices instead of lower wholesale prices, is ~ USD 45 per meter squared. The relatively low cost for its long operational timeframes before deterioration enables potential active use in industry, which in turn reduces emissions of greenhouse gases and promotes energy sustainability. We try to involve active manufacturers and users of condensers, to understand their demands and challenges to enable a productive co-design process with our knowledge in the area. Overall, STRUCTURED fills the gap of the current lack of exchange of expertise between industry and research in the area of materials for condensation heat transfer.