wcm.01.2025.31.39

This article examines the efficiency of the ETRO-02 ozonator, powered by solar energy, in the water purification process. The study aims to identify an environmentally friendly and economically efficient method for eliminating microorganisms in water by utilizing alternative energy sources to power the ozonator. Research materials included water from the Kapshagay reservoir, solar panels, and the ozonator device.

During the study, solar panels capable of producing 4.2 to 5.5 kWh of energy daily were employed, ensuring the continuous operation of the ozonator. The total bacterial contamination in the water decreased from 12,000 CFU/ml to 45 CFU/ml, while coliform bacteria were reduced from 25 CFU/100 ml to 1 CFU/100 ml. Additionally, harmful microorganisms such as Enterococcus, Salmonella, and Legionella were completely eliminated. The ozonator’s efficiency in removing bacteria and viruses ranged between 90-99%.

In conclusion, the solar-powered ozonator demonstrated itself to be an environmentally friendly and economically viable solution for effective water purification. This method is particularly suitable for remote and rural areas.

Relevance of the Scientific Research Work

Water scarcity is one of the pressing issues in the world today (Apolinário and Castro, 2024; García-Gil et al., 2021). Effective and sustainable methods for water purification are needed to address this problem (Novas et al., 2021). The use of ozonators is particularly important in the water disinfection process, as ozone is one of the strongest oxidants used in water purification (Abdykadyrov et al., 2023). Solar-powered ozonators operate with clean energy that does not harm the environment (Hafeez et al., 2021; Hendrickson et al., 2020). This method aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6 – “Clean Water and Sanitation.”

Role of the Ozonator

The efficiency and advantages of ozonators in water purification, combined with solar energy, enhance the sustainability of the water treatment system. To increase the efficiency of ozonators using solar energy, new technologies need to be implemented. For example, solar-powered desalination systems can reduce water production costs by up to 33% (Apolinário and Castro, 2024; Reif and Alhalabi, 2015). Additionally, ozonators are highly suitable for purifying water in areas lacking solar energy (Novas et al., 2021; Beltrán Novillo and Rey Barroso, 2017).

Potential of Solar Energy

Solar energy plays a significant role in water purification as an environmentally friendly and renewable resource. The use of solar energy reduces the emission of harmful gases and decreases dependency on fossil fuels (Shahsavari and Akbari, 2018). The compatibility of solar panels and ozonators enhances efficiency in water purification (Camera-Roda et al., 2019). According to studies, photovoltaic systems can be used to save electricity in water treatment technologies (da Costa and da Silva, 2021). The development of solar energy technologies increases the efficiency of these systems (Chu and Meisen, 2011; Gorjian and Ghobadian, 2015).

Research Objective

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of systems that power ozonators with solar energy in water purification. Solar-powered ozonators will enable efficient and environmentally friendly water purification in the future. Research has shown that these systems can help reduce costs and improve water quality in purification processes (Apolinário and Castro, 2024; Dorevitch et al., 2020; Mecha and Chollom, 2020). Solar-powered systems may be effective in remote areas, and utilizing renewable energy sources ensures the efficient management of water resources (Kharraz et al., 2017; Thanigaivel et al., 2022).

Research Site and Methodology

The scientific research was conducted at the “Drilling Training” site of the Kazakh National Research Technical University named after K.I. Satpayev. At the training drilling site, drinking water is sourced from the Kapshagay reservoir. Based on an innovative technology powered by a solar system designed for 500 students, a pilot ETRO-02 ozonator unit was developed, with a capacity of 5 kW (Abdykadyrov et al., 2021; Udhayakumar et al., 2016). The unit can disinfect and purify 8 m³ of water per hour. The research work was conducted between 2020 and 2024 at the scientific laboratory of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics.

2. MATERIALS AND METHODS

Research on Solar Energy-Powered Ozonator Systems

Research on solar energy-powered ozonator systems has garnered significant interest in recent years for water purification processes (Potivejkul et al., 1998; Abdikadyrov, A., Kalandarov, P., 2024). Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of utilizing solar energy as a replacement for traditional electricity in powering ozonators. For example, connecting solar panels to ozonators achieves energy efficiency while reducing the carbon footprint. Studies indicate that the combination of solar energy and ozonators is effective in eliminating bacteria and viruses in water. Consequently, sustainable water purification systems that are independent of conventional natural resources are being developed (Draginsky et al., 2007; Abdykadyrov et al., 2023; Abdykadyrov et al., 2021).

Limitations and Challenges

Despite these advancements, several limitations remain. The stability of solar energy and associated storage systems pose significant challenges, as ozonators cannot operate during nighttime or in conditions of minimal sunlight. Moreover, the efficiency of some systems is still suboptimal. Scaling these systems for use in large water treatment plants presents additional difficulties (Jbilou et al., 2022; Nehari et al., 2019).

Scientific Advancements and Future Directions

Recent advancements in optimizing ozone generation processes and developing hybrid systems (e.g., integrating wind or other renewable energy sources) have enhanced the independence and efficiency of solar-powered ozonator systems. These innovations improve the system’s viability for broader applications. However, further research is required to reduce energy costs and achieve full automation of the process. Such advancements are essential for making the system more cost-effective and user-friendly (Vezzu et al., 2009; Palej P. et al., 2019; Tikhomirov et al., 2020; Da Silva et al., 2009).

2.1  Scientific Research Object

Currently, powering ozonators with alternative solar energy in the surface water purification process is a pressing issue due to the high cost of ozone technology (Da Silva et al., 2009), necessitating alternative energy sources, as ozonators purify water and eliminate pollutants (Abdykadyrov et al., 2023; Abdykadyrov et al., 2023) while solar panels provide energy, though challenges like weather-dependent solar panel efficiency (150–200 W/m² on sunny days, dropping up to 50% on cloudy days), inverter losses (85–95% efficiency), limited battery capacity (10–12 hours during low sunlight), and low solar radiation in some regions affect stability and efficiency, as shown in Table 1 (Kim et al., 2008).