It’s no secret that Irvine, California is a hub for medical devices, many of which have had life-altering impacts and have become the heart of UC Irvine innovations and startups. However, UCI has also stretched its roots to address the implications of areas such as climate change, environmental sustainability and conservation via some tiny (and not-so-tiny) branches into the green tech sector.
Below are some UCI environmentally focused technologies.
Devices for Integrated Solar Photodialysis of Salt Water
Fresh water resources have historically been the primary supply for agricultural irrigation, but in recent decades, limited supply has forced agriculturalists to use brackish streams, runoff and well water, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. These resources are more saline and limit the types of crops that can withstand this water quality.
Researchers at UCI have developed a compact device for the rapid desalination of water that is driven entirely by renewable solar energy.
Spray-Coated Paint based on Glass Bubbles for Buildings
Heat reflecting structures can help reduce heat conduction and in return reduce the utilization of energy resources, according to the Department of Energy.
UCI researchers have developed a spray-coated paint consisting of glass bubbles that can be used to control the temperature of buildings and save energy.
By 2050, sea levels are expected to rise by one foot causing dozens of cities across the world to be submerged underwater. Additionally, climate change is expected to cause more frequent and severe flooding, incurring billions of dollars in damage to cities and economies around the world, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
UCI inventors have developed software that can predict floods with greater than 30-feet resolution within a short time span. These predictions will help plan and prepare for future floods, allow for intelligent responses to ongoing floods and learn from past floods.
Discover UCI available technologies that can help make businesses greener and save energy.
Main Graphic: Julie Kennedy