University of South Africa
Overview of innovation

AquaCarbon™ introduces a high-performance membrane technology designed for membrane distillation desalination. The innovation integrates multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes to create a robust, highly hydrophobic, and porous structure capable of achieving up to 80% water recovery. Unlike conventional pressure-driven desalination systems, AquaCarbon™ operates at low temperatures and low pressure, resulting in reduced
energy consumption and lower operational costs. The unique nanocomposite design minimises membrane fouling and wetting, ensuring long-term operational stability and reducing maintenance and replacement costs. This technology represents a major advancement in water treatment, offering an efficient and sustainable solution for the desalination of brackish and seawater, particularly in arid or off-grid regions.

Type of Intellectual Property protection
Patent
Innovation Opportunity Type
Investment
Partnership
Industry
Water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities
Water collection, treatment and supply
Waste collection, treatment and disposal activitites; materials recovery
Remediation activities and other waste management services
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 6 – Prototype tested in real-world settings
Website link
https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Research-&-Innovation/Innovation,-Technology-Transfer-and-Commercialisation