Superhydrophobic Catalyst

25.06.2024

Superhydrophobic Catalyst

Why in the news?                        

A team of scientists from Assam, Odisha, China, and the United Kingdom have developed a water-repellent catalyst that can cut the cost of producing “environmentally benign” biodiesel substantially from the current levels.

About Superhydrophobic Catalyst:

• The new catalyst is named as “spherical superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst” which is developed to withstand water by-product during the production of biodiesel.
• This catalyst imitates the anti-wetting or water-repulsing properties of natural surfaces such as lotus leaves.
• Biodiesel: It is a renewable, biodegradable fuel manufactured domestically from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled restaurant grease.

Advantages

• The catalyst is derived from biomass (cellulose), is ecologically benign, abundant, and highly affordable.
• This breakthrough has the potential to significantly reduce the cost of biodiesel production, making sustainable energy more accessible.
• It is highly effective and can be reused multiple times, making the catalytic process more efficient and cost-effective.
• At present, the cost of biodiesel in India is about ₹100 or UD$1.2 per liter. Using the superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst can bring down the cost to about 37 cents per liter.

What is activated carbon?

• It is a class of amorphous carbonaceous material with large porosity and internal surface area.
• Coconut shells, coal, and wood are the basic sources of activated carbon.

                                                       Source: The Hindu

Ques :- Consider the following statements with reference to the Superhydrophobic Catalyst:

A.This catalyst imitates the anti-wetting or water-repulsing properties of natural surfaces such as lotus leaves.

B.The catalyst is derived from biomass (cellulose), is ecologically benign, abundant, and highly affordable.

C.It is highly effective and can be reused multiple times, making the catalytic process more efficient and cost-effective.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

A.Only one

B.Only two

C.All three

D.None

Answer C