Saltwater-Powered Electricity Generation System as renewable energy source

A Capstone Project Research

Presented to the Faculty of

San Ramon Catholic School, Inc.

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirement on the Subject Practical Research 2

Of Senior High School -Academic Track

Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics

Jerome Antonio

Ailyn Mae Peñaflorida

Arc Xerlan Lucasan

Jenny Rose Talorong

Rhea Mae Alojado

Jillian Bryle Pesca

Carvey Jhon Ayuco

Aldrin John Garanzo

Angela Talaban

Harry Talaban
 Chapter 1

Introduction

Background of the Study

The increasing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources has led to a growing
interest in exploring alternative methods of electricity generation. Renewable energy sources,
such as solar and wind power, have gained significant attention and have made substantial
contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (Gude, V. G. 2016). However, there is still a
need to explore additional renewable energy options to meet the ever-increasing global energy
demand.

One the other hand, one promising area of research is the utilization of saltwater as a
potential energy source for electricity generation. Saltwater is abundantly available and can be
found in oceans, seas, and saltwater lakes across the globe. By harnessing the power of the
chemical reactions that occur between saltwater and specific materials, it may be possible to
generate electricity in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner (Verma, A., &
Prakash, R. 2020).

The concept of saltwater-powered electricity generation is not entirely new. Researchers

have been exploring various techniques, such as the use of salinity gradient energy, osmotic
power, and brackish water desalination, to harness the energy stored in saltwater (Cipollina, A.,
Micale, G., & Tamburini, A. 2017). These methods have shown promising results in laboratory
settings, but significant challenges need to be addressed for practical implementation and
scalability.

Moreover, some of the key challenges associated with saltwater-powered electricity

generation include the development of efficient and cost-effective materials that can effectively
extract energy from saltwater, the management and mitigation of environmental impacts
associated with large-scale deployment, and the integration of saltwater-based systems into
existing power grids ( Al-Mohammedawi, A., & Al-Sumaidae, S. 2019).
 Additionally, there is a need to evaluate the economic viability and long-term
sustainability of saltwater-powered electricity generation systems compared to conventional
energy sources.

General Objectives:

To design and develop an efficient and sustainable saltwater-powered electricity

generation system that harnesses the power of saltwater as a renewable energy source, providing
a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy generation methods.

Specific Objectives:

1. To conduct extensive research on existing saltwater-powered electricity generation

technologies and systems.

2.To design and develop a prototype of a saltwater-powered electricity generation system that
maximizes energy conversion efficiency.

3.To evaluate the economic feasibility and scalability of the saltwater-powered electricity
generation system.

Statement of the problem

How can the development and implementation of a saltwater-powered electricity

generation system be effectively utilized to promote environmental sustainability and address
energy needs?

Scope and Limitations

This capstone project will focus on the design, development, and evaluation of a
saltwater-powered electricity generation system. The project will involve conducting in-depth
research on existing technologies, identifying key design considerations, and proposing
innovative solutions to maximize energy conversion efficiency. A prototype of the system will
be developed and tested to validate its feasibility and performance. Additionally, an economic
analysis will be conducted to assess the financial viability of the system as a commercially
sustainable renewable energy source.
 Chapter II

Conceptual Framework

INPUT PROCESS
 Research and System
Knowledge Design
 Material Selection
Requirements:
 Prototyping
 Fundamentals of salt  Testing
water-powered
electricity
 Saltwater-powered
electricity principle

Raw Material OUTPUT

Salt water-powered electricity as
 Saltwater
final output.

Instrument
 Aquarium

Component requirements
 Light bulb
EVALUATION and
 Electrical wiring
PERFORMANCE TEST
 Metal blade
 Multimeter
 Socket

fy
Review Related Literature

Local Literature

M.Albano(2009)The project study is to develop a prototype alternative liquid-water-

based power source utilizing the electrolytic cell battery technology. In the search for higher

voltage and current output, several alternative electrolyte, and metal as electrodes were

examined. Electrical energy is produced in many forms such as through combustion, mechanical

movement, and photosynthesis (Battery University, 2017a). Electrical energy generation of

batteries is produced by an electrochemical reaction between two metals having different

affinities (ibid) such as zinc and copper. When the metals (the electrodes) are exposed to a type

of liquid (usually acid) voltage is developed between them as part of ion transfer (ibid). The

energy produced in the process comes from the chemical change in dissolving the metal into the

acid termed as redox reaction (Bewick et al., 2019; Bates, 2012; Bertrand, nd).

Foreign Literature

According to Jamie, A., (2016), as water molecules pass through the membrane, the

difference in solute concentrations in the water will cause molecules from the "fresh water" side

to pass rapidly to the salt water side, increasing the pressure turns the turbines of a generator and

produces electricity. The Difference in salinity between freshwater and saltwater holds promise

as a large source of renewable energy. Energy is required to desalinate water, and running the

process in reverse can generate energy. Now a novel approach based on a conventional battery

design that uses nanomaterials could provide a way to harvest that energy economically.

Mckenna, P. (2011). According to Perles, K., (2011), This Science project will explore the
components of a battery, specifically how the conductivity of the solution in the battery affects

how much electricity it generates. Make a saltwater solution by mixing a small jar of water with

a teaspoon of salt. If you'd like, you can make a line graph showing the relationship between the

amount of salt in the water and the current that flows between the two electrodes. In the research

of David, I., (2017). Pure water is not very conductive and only a tiny bit of current can move

through the water.

Toppr (2019), stated that "a galvanic cell is a type of electrochemical cell. It is used to

supply electric current by making the transfer of electrons through a redox reaction". According

to Ori (2017), "saltwater strengthens water ability to conduct electricity. When a electromagnet is

placed, near saltwater is conductive properties. The saltwater then create an opposing magnetic

field that creates turbulence. Water is diamagnetic, which means that it exerts a weak magnetic

field, and repels other magnetic field. If a magnet is suspended over water, the water's

diamagnetism will repel the magnet, it weakens the water's magnetic field further, so that it

ceased to have any significant effect on other magnetic fields. However, saltwater conducts

electricity better than non-saltwater, so magnet placed near that can cause significant turbulence

in the water. The addition of salt lessens water's diamagnetic properties. In addition, salt raises

the freezing point and lower the boiling point of water. Salt also strengthens the waters ability to

conduct electricity. Due to these effects, magnets do not affect saltwater the same way that they

do regular water".

However, a physicist named Mike, W. (2014), stated that "there's no real contradiction

between the tendency of water to be attracted by electric fields and (weakly) repelled by

magnetic fields. Think of the two physical situations. The electric field may come from some

unbalanced charge in some region. The magnetic field may come from a completely neutral
region in which the positive and negative charges are moving opposite ways. There's no logical

reason why these different physical situations should have to produce the same effect on the

water. Still, even viewed by itself, the diamagnetism is interesting. If you were to picture water

as made up of little magnetic dipoles (sort of like how you can picture water as made up of little

molecular electric dipoles) then you'd expect it to be attracted to magnetic fields just by analogy

to how it's attracted to electric fields. That analogy would be good even if electricity and

magnetism had nothing to do with each other. So that tells us that a classical picture of water as

made up of fixed magnetic dipoles has problems. In fact, the diamagnetism is a purely quantum

mechanical effect, not describable in these classical terms". Bear (2017) claimed that "saltwater

is made up of sodium chloride (NaCl) and water. When salt added to water, the sodium and

chloride ions float freely in the water. Since ion has an electric charge, it can carry electricity

through water. If a circuit is created with an electricity source and a light bulb, it is possible to

light the bulb using saltwater as a conductor". In research of Ramirez (2010), his students build

a saltwater circuit, which is an electrical circuit that uses saltwater as part of the circuit.

Significant of the Study

Coastal area residents. Coastal area residents often define the benefits of exploring the

potential of saltwater as an energy source by emphasizing its renewable nature, reduced

environmental impact, and the potential for sustainable electricity generation. They recognize the

importance of designing and evaluating saltwater-powered systems to harness clean energy while

minimizing ecological consequences.

Students. Exploring the potential of saltwater as an energy source involves investigating

and developing systems that harness the inherent energy within saltwater to generate electricity.
This interdisciplinary endeavor benefits students by fostering critical thinking, problem-solving

skills, and hands-on experience in designing and evaluating innovative saltwater-powered

electricity generation systems. Additionally, it provides insights into sustainable energy

solutions, promoting environmental awareness and technological advancements.

Researchers. Exploring the potential of saltwater as an energy source involves

investigating methods to harness energy from saltwater for electricity generation. Researchers

aim to design and evaluate saltwater-powered systems, seeking sustainable and environmentally

friendly alternatives to traditional energy sources. This exploration can lead to innovations in

saltwater-powered electricity generation, contributing to cleaner and more sustainable energy

practices

Ethical Consideration

Environmental Responsibility. Operationally, the capstone can conduct environmental

impact assessments to identify potential risks and develop mitigation measures. This includes

analyzing the life cycle impacts of the system, optimizing resource use, minimizing waste

generation, and implementing sustainable practices throughout the system's design and operation.

Social Equity. Operationally, the capstone can engage in community consultations and

social impact assessments to understand the needs and concerns of affected communities. This

includes incorporating their perspectives into the decision-making process, ensuring equitable

access to the benefits of the system, and designing outreach programs to promote awareness and

inclusion.

Health and Safety. Operationally, the capstone can establish health and safety protocols

and procedures. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing training programs,
monitoring and mitigating potential hazards, and ensuring compliance with relevant health and

safety regulations throughout the system's development and operation.

Transparency and Accountability. Operationally, the capstone can ensure transparency

by documenting and reporting all relevant information on the system's development, impacts,

and performance. This includes maintaining open communication with stakeholders, providing

access to information, and establishing mechanisms for feedback and accountability.

Stakeholder Engagement. Operationally, the capstone can actively engage stakeholders

through various methods such as surveys, focus groups, and public consultations. This includes

incorporating stakeholder input into decision-making, addressing concerns and feedback, and

maintaining ongoing communication throughout the project.

Ethical Research Practices. Operationally, the capstone can adhere to ethical research

practices by obtaining necessary approvals and permissions, ensuring informed consent,

maintaining data privacy and confidentiality, and following recognized research ethics guidelines

in all data collection and analysis.

Compliance with Laws and Regulations. Operationally, the capstone can ensure

compliance with relevant laws and regulations through diligent monitoring and adherence. This

includes obtaining necessary permits and licenses, conducting regular audits to assess

compliance, and addressing any identified gaps or issues promptly.

Operational Definition of Terms

Saltwater-Powered Electricity Generation System. Operationally, the capstone can

focus on the development and implementation of a system that harnesses the energy from

saltwater to generate electricity. This includes designing and optimizing the components,

processes, and materials involved in the system.

Renewable Energy Source. Operationally, the capstone can emphasize the significance

of utilizing a sustainable and renewable energy source. It can involve researching and analyzing

the potential of saltwater as an abundant and renewable resource for electricity generation.

Clean and Sustainable Energy Sources: Operationally, the capstone can assess and

evaluate the environmental impact and sustainability of the saltwater-powered electricity

generation system. This involves considering factors such as emissions reduction, waste

management, and the long-term viability of the system.

Salinity Gradient Energy and Osmotic Power. Operationally, the capstone can

investigate and experiment with the principles and techniques of salinity gradient energy and

osmotic power. This includes studying the efficiency, scalability, and practical implementation

of these methods within the saltwater-powered electricity generation system.

Energy Conversion Efficiency. Operationally, the capstone can focus on optimizing the

energy conversion efficiency of the saltwater-powered electricity generation system. This

includes analyzing and improving the system's components, design, and operational parameters

to maximize the output of electricity from saltwater.

 Economic Feasibility. Operationally, the capstone can conduct a comprehensive

economic analysis to determine the feasibility and viability of the saltwater-powered electricity

generation system. This involves assessing the costs, benefits, returns on investment, and

potential revenue streams associated with the system.

Scalability. Operationally, the capstone can address the scalability of the saltwater-

powered electricity generation system. This includes evaluating its potential for expansion,

replication, and adaptation to different scales and contexts, while maintaining efficiency and

performance.

Chapter III

Methodology

A prototype research design involves designing, developing, and testing a scaled-down

version or model of the saltwater-powered electricity generation system. This design approach

allows researchers to assess the system's performance, functionality, and feasibility (Smith, J., &

Johnson, A. 2019). By building a prototype, researchers can gather practical insights and data to

evaluate the system's potential as a renewable energy source.

 Meanwhile, an experimental design can be used in combination with the prototype

research design to further investigate and validate the performance of the saltwater-powered

electricity generation system. Researchers can set up controlled experiments to measure and

analyze key parameters such as power output, energy conversion efficiency, and system stability.

By manipulating and controlling variables in a systematic manner, researchers can gather

quantitative data to assess the system's performance and compare it with other renewable energy

sources (Johnson, M., & Williams, L. 2018). This helps in understanding the strengths,

limitations, and potential of the system.

Project Design

As stated by Zhang (2019). A form of sustainable energy technology known as the

seawater-Powered Electricity Generation System uses the energy created by the chemical

interaction of seawater with certain metals to produce electricity. Usually, this type of system

consists of two electrodes, such as copper and zinc, that are different metals submerged in a

saline solution or seawater. Electrons are released during the chemical interaction between the

metals and the seawater; these electrons can be collected and converted into electrical energy.

As an electrolyte, the saltwater helps the ions flow between the electrodes to complete the

electrical circuit. The metals eventually break down as the chemical reaction continues on, and in

order to keep the system functioning properly, saltwater must be routinely added to or changed..

Additionally, the aquarium offers a realistic environment to demonstrate the efficiency

and performance of the system for producing energy powered by saltwater. It allows the
researchers on the capstone project to show that the system can power the aquarium's numerous

components and produce electricity from saltwater.

The aquarium also offers a tangible and visible component for recording the capstone

project. In order to illustrate the system's functionality, development, and results, the team can

take pictures, videos, and measurements. These can then be used in project reports, presentations,

or upcoming scientific papers.

The light bulb can be used as a load to test the performance and capacity of the saltwater-

powered electricity generation system. By connecting the generated electricity to the light bulb,

the capstone researchers can measure factors such as voltage, current, and power output, and

assess the system's ability to meet the electrical demand.

Project Design

The general layout of the researcher's prototype salt-water

generator is seen in Figure 1. The saltwater that is stored

inside the aquarium will power the generator. The user loads

the aquarium by adding saltwater litter to it. After the

aquarium is full, connect the blade to the wire so that the

saltwater conducts electricity to the light bulb.

Figure 1: Overall view

Exploded View

Figure 2 shows the left view of the machine this are

thelist of materials that can be seen: the plywood,

electrical wiring, light bulb and its socket that

connects to the aquarium.

Figure 2: Left view

Figure 3 shows the back view of the researchers

machine.

Figure 3: Back view of the machine

Figure 4 contains the bird view of the Researchers

machine.

Figure 4: birds view

Figure 5 show the researchers the plywood that holds the

components needed for the machine to function.

Figure 5: Wooden plate

Figure 6 shows a socket that is attached to the wiring of

the saltwater aquarium. The wiring include a metal blade
that is used to start the flow of electricity from the
saltwater to the wire that powers the light bulb.

Figure 6: Right view

Product Evaluation

First Trial: The first trial focuses on performance testing of the system using 3 liters of

saltwater. It assesses the system's efficiency, stability, and reliability in converting

saltwater energy into electricity. Performance parameters such as power output, voltage,

current, and energy conversion efficiency are measured and recorded.

Second Trial: The second trial involves testing the system using 5 liters of saltwater. It

evaluates the system's performance with a larger volume of saltwater, assessing its

scalability and ability to generate electricity on a larger scale. Performance parameters, as

 well as potential environmental impacts and economic feasibility, may be considered in

this trial.

Third Trial: The third trial expands further by testing the system using 7 liters of

saltwater. It aims to assess the system's performance and scalability with an increased

volume of saltwater. Performance parameters, environmental impacts, economic

feasibility, and comparative analysis against conventional energy sources may be

evaluated in this trial.

Throughout the evaluation procedure, data and insights from each trial are collected and

analyzed. These findings help refine and optimize the saltwater-powered electricity generation

system, addressing any limitations or areas for improvement. The evaluation procedure as a

whole provides a comprehensive assessment of the system's performance, environmental impact,

economic viability, scalability, and competitiveness compared to conventional energy sources.

By conducting these trials and considering various factors, the evaluation procedure allows for a

thorough understanding of the saltwater-powered electricity generation system's potential as a

renewable energy solution.