Researchers at RMIT University in Australia have developed an innovative method to produce green hydrogen using wastewater contaminants, reducing reliance on freshwater. The project, a collaboration with the University of Melbourne, Australian Synchrotron, and University of New South Wales, builds on prior advancements, such as removing microplastics with magnets and producing hydrogen from seawater.

Associate Professor Nasir Mahmood, lead researcher from RMIT’s School of Science, explained: “The advantage of our innovation over others to produce green hydrogen is that it harnesses wastewater’s inherent materials rather than requiring purified water or additional steps.” The method captures metals like platinum, chromium, and nickel from wastewater, repurposing them to enhance hydrogen production.

The process uses electrodes in a container with two components—an anode and a cathode—powered by renewable energy. The researchers noted: “At the cathode, water molecules gain electrons and form hydrogen gas. At the anode, water molecules lose electrons and form oxygen.” This splits water into hydrogen and oxygen, both of which can be collected for use. During lab tests, the system sustained continuous water splitting for 18 days with minimal performance decline, using pre-treated wastewater with solid waste, organic matter, and nutrients removed.

Professor Nicky Eshtiaghi, co-lead researcher from RMIT’s School of Engineering, highlighted the method’s dual benefits: “Our innovation addresses both pollution reduction and water scarcity, benefiting the energy and water sectors. By using wastewater, the process helps reduce pollution and makes use of materials considered to be waste.” The approach could lower wastewater treatment costs while generating green hydrogen, a clean energy source.

Dr. Muhammad Haris, co-researcher from the School of Engineering, emphasized the need for further development: “The method needs to be tested with different types of wastewater to ensure it works universally.” The team aims to collaborate with global companies in the energy and water sectors to scale the technology for commercial applications, focusing on sustainable energy and waste management solutions.

This breakthrough offers a promising approach to green hydrogen production, leveraging wastewater to address environmental challenges. By integrating renewable energy and repurposing contaminants, the method supports sustainable energy goals while reducing the environmental impact of wastewater treatment.