An Electrolytic Approach to Ocean Water Restoration

Overview

Objectives/Goals The major objectives were to determine: I. Exactly how much activated CaSiO(3) (and thus HCl) and how much NaOH [electrolytic components] would be needed to neutralize multi-current system ocean water to pre-industrial acidity levels. (And consequently whether the figures obtained would fit into the NSG-habitable bracket.) II. How this amount varies throughout the three non-polar ocean systems based on average pH (carbonic acid-titrated ECmII) Methods/Materials Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific ocean current systems were isolated in a gas infusion chamber for the H(2)CO(3) genesis to the correct molarity to yield desired pH. Salinity was titrated and confirmed using refractometer readings. Titration conducted first with NaOH and second with globulated CaSiO(3). Measurements checked 4X to confirm data: standard variation found to be reassuringly minimal. Data successfully replicated, data extrapolation revealed volumes in habitable bracket. Results Pacific Simulation (200mL) 0.121 mL CaSiO3 0.312 mL NaOH Atlantic Simulation (200mL) 0.261 mL CaSiO3 0.574 mL NaOH Indian Simulation (200mL) 0.310 mL CaSiO3 0.665 mL NaOH Conclusions/Discussion "Electrolytic" approach still feasible, but given proximity to upper end of HB, especially NaOH, likelihood of application if action not taken immediately is dismal. Global warming's slow advance is largely due to the global ocean's capability to sequester CO(2). With acidification (H(2)CO(3) formation), however, this sequestration capability is greatly diminished. With an implementation of the electrolytic approach in either a biological or strictly chemical strategy, much of the worst effects of increased atmospheric CO(2) can be kept at bay until anthropogenic carbon emissions diminish significantly without adversely affecting marine biota.

Competition history

• CSEF 2009 Earth & Environment (Senior Division Only) · Entry S0822

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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