Electricity could "save" the coastline.

With approximately 40% of the world's population living in coastal areas, coastal erosion is a pressing global issue. However, researchers from Northwestern University in the US have just discovered that applying a low-voltage electric current to beach sand can create sustainable, natural defenses against the relentless onslaught of waves and rising sea levels.

Erosion along Australia's Gold Coast

According to research recently published on StudyFinds, applying an electric current to seawater-saturated sand leads to the formation of mineral deposits that bind the sand particles together. Lower voltages (2.0-3.0V) primarily produce calcium carbonate, while higher voltages (4.0V) facilitate the formation of magnesium hydroxide and hydromagnesite. The treated sand showed a significant increase in strength, with some samples becoming as solid as virgin concrete.

This process also significantly reduces the permeability of sand, making it more water-repellent. Although this study has some limitations, it has introduced a novel approach to coastal erosion mitigation that may be more sustainable, cost-effective, and adaptable than traditional methods.

HANH CHI

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/dien-co-the-cuu-bo-bien-post756005.html