Title : Application of artificial photosynthesis as an innovative solution for reducing heavy fuel oil emissions and their impacts on human health
Abstract:
Based on extensive field studies and scientific analyses conducted in power plants, oil refineries, petrochemical complexes, and major industrial facilities—particularly in the Central Province of Iran and the Shazand region—it has been determined that the combustion of Heavy Fuel Oil (Mazut) produces extremely hazardous pollutants. These pollutants significantly contribute to the increased prevalence of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and especially cancer among residents of surrounding urban and industrial areas
Identified Major Pollutants. The primary pollutants identified as a result of heavy fuel oil combustion include:
- Sulfur Dioxide (SO?): A major cause of acid rain and severe respiratory irritation.
- Carbon Dioxide (CO?): The most significant greenhouse gas contributing to global warming.
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Key precursors in the formation of ground-level ozone and photochemical smog.
- Particulate Matter (PM2.5): Ultra-fine carcinogenic particles capable of penetrating directly into the bloodstream.
- Black Carbon: One of the most hazardous carcinogenic byproducts of incomplete combustion.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO): A highly toxic gas with strong affinity for hemoglobin.
- Heavy Metals present in Heavy Fuel Oil, including: Vanadium (V), Nickel (Ni), and Lead (Pb), which are associated with neurological disorders and cancer.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Major precursors of photochemical smog formation.
Proposed Mitigation Strategies:
1. Mechanical Solutions
- Activated Carbon Filters
- Nano-Carbon Filters
- Wet Scrubber Systems
- Oil-based Filters for capturing PM2.5 and Black Carbon
- Ground-Level Ozone (O?) absorption systems
2. Chemical Solution: Artificial Photosynthesis: In this research, i have developed an innovative chemical formula that mimics the natural process of photosynthesis in plants:
In natural systems, plants consume six molecules of CO? and six molecules of H?O and, in the presence of the enzyme Rubisco (Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase), synthesize one molecule of glucose (C?H??O?) while releasing six molecules of oxygen (O?). Using a proprietary alternative chemical formulation, I have successfully reproduced this reaction under industrial conditions, enabling:
- Direct absorption of CO?, NOx, SO?, O?, and VOCs
- Molecular decomposition of pollutants
- Production of high-purity oxygen (Pure O?)
- Validation and Recognition
This technology was evaluated at the International Invention Exhibition in Serbia by a jury composed of environmental science and industrial chemistry experts from eight countries and was awarded an International Gold Medal, confirming its scientific merit and practical applicability.
Conclusion and Proposal:
The findings of this study demonstrate that Artificial Photosynthesis represents a novel, scalable, and effective solution for air pollution mitigation, public health protection, and sustainable industrial development. The implementation of pilot projects in power plants, refineries, petrochemical facilities, aluminum factories, and industrial zones is strongly recommended.
