Florian Romain “How can we optimize the transformation of seawater into drinking water? ”What is the title of your thesis?
“Functionalized silicas for seawater desalination: an avenue for valorizing local geothermal silica”. It is directed by Professor Dr Joëlle Levalois-Grützmacher and Dr (HDR*) Christelle Yacou.
When will the thesis defense take place?
My thesis defense is scheduled for July 2026.
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Can you summarize your work in one sentence Floryan Romain?
In seawater desalination systems using photovoltaic cells, solar energy evaporates seawater and separates salt and drinking water. I am trying to improve their performance by changing the materials used.
What are the concrete applications of your study?
My study proposes an innovative solution to resolve the problem of access to water in our islands, where this resource is becoming increasingly rare due to global warming and natural risks. By creating glass surfaces that repel water, my project enhances a solar desalination system. These special surfaces, integrated into this system, make it possible to transform seawater into drinking water in an ecological and economical way. In fact, they prevent salt water and humidity from stagnating or adhering to the glass surface. Water evaporates more efficiently and condenses without saline residue, improving desalination efficiency. This technology could be used to provide the inhabitants of our territories with easier and sustainable access to water, while responding to current environmental challenges.
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What are your plans after the thesis?
After my thesis, several projects took shape, but two main ideas emerged: continue in academic research or create a business using this innovative system. To be continued.
*HDR: authorization to direct filmed research, carried out with Martinican filmmaker Christian Foret.
Canada
