What is Marine Tech?
Marine Tech – Expert in Marine Environment – is a pioneering French SME founded in 2014 in Signes (South of France) by four former directing managers of Nymphea Environment, a subsidiary of the Vinci Group. With a passion for the sea and water, they took on the challenge of sustainable development, channeling their expertise into innovative solutions for the marine environment. Marine Tech specializes in the production of fresh water from underwater springs – natural phenomena discovered in all the seas of the world – making use of ancient terrestrial sources that were formed thousands of years ago when sea levels were lower than today. It is a project that truly marries technology with nature in a unique and engaging way…
Main Benefit
Key figures and facts about Marine Tech include:
- Innovative production of fresh water using naturally occurring underwater springs.
- A three-phase methodology that incorporates geological studies, precise location of deposits with advanced technology, and detailed analysis of water deposits over several months.
- Sustainable production that leverages natural forces such as Archimedes’ thrust, hydraulic pressure, and gravity – eliminating the need for pumps or electric power, and thereby reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
- An export market orientation with 80% of its turnover generated overseas, proving the global relevance and acceptance of its solutions.
- Versatility in applications, making the water produced a viable resource for agriculture, industry, or even drinking water supply in regions facing scarcity.
Production of Water from Underwater Springs
Marine Tech’s core business centers on exploiting underwater springs – these ancient freshwater sources are fascinating because they are remnants from an era when sea levels were lower. When coastal geological formations are composed of limestone or volcanic rocks, water infiltrates the ground and, by the relentless pull of gravity, flows to the lower points beneath the sea. Due to its lower density compared to saltwater, fresh water naturally ascends to the surface, driven by Archimedes’ principle. This natural mechanism is not only scientifically intriguing but also highly efficient – turning the ocean itself into a provider of clean water.
Methodology and Exploration Techniques
Marine Tech employs a meticulously designed three-phase approach to locate and exploit underwater springs. The first phase involves extensive geological studies and thermography, which help in understanding the underlying formations and in targeting the most promising areas. In the second phase, the precise location of underwater deposits is determined utilizing either an oceanographic vessel or the innovative marine drone known as RSV. These advanced tools come equipped with salinity probes and acoustic detection instruments, ensuring that every deposit is accurately mapped. The final phase entails a comprehensive study of the deposits, lasting several months, during which various physical and chemical parameters—such as flow rate and salinity—are scrutinized and their fluctuations are monitored over time. It’s a process that reflects a fascinating blend of traditional geoscience and modern technology…
Embracing Sustainable Solutions
Keeping nature at the forefront, Marine Tech’s technology harnesses the inherent forces of nature – like hydraulic pressure, gravity, and the thrust explained by Archimedes. Quite remarkably, there is no need for external energy sources such as pumps or electricity, thereby ensuring that the production process is free of pollution and greenhouse gases. This environmentally respectful method is further exemplified by projects like HELIO, a 100% self-sufficient solution that produces drinking water using only solar energy. Developed between 2015 and 2018, HELIO is now reaching its stage of industrialization, symbolizing a commitment to bringing sustainable and scalable solutions to a world increasingly aware of climate challenges.
Exploration and Preservation of the Marine Environment
The exploration of underwater springs is not just about water production; it is also about preserving the marine ecosystem. Each underwater spring features unique physical and chemical characteristics that play an essential role in the surrounding marine environment, affecting factors such as density and salinity. The careful exploration conducted by Marine Tech ensures that any engagement with these natural resources is done with the utmost respect for environmental balance. This approach not only provides practical benefits by increasing water supply for various sectors but also promotes a deeper understanding of marine geology and ecology. It is an exciting area of work where science, technology, and nature come together in a dynamic, interconnected dance.
Project Impact
- Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6)
- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
- Climate Action (SDG 13)
- Life Below Water (SDG 14)
Future Opportunities and Global Reach
Marine Tech’s commitment to sustainable technology provides far-reaching opportunities, particularly for countries grappling with water scarcity. The developed techniques for producing freshwater, along with the engineering of marine unmanned surface vehicles for environmental measurement and pollution containment, illustrate a real promise for the future. The fact that 80% of its turnover comes from export markets is a testament to the global relevance of these innovative solutions. Looking ahead, the continued development and industrialization of projects such as HELIO are expected to further transform the production and management of freshwater, setting new benchmarks for sustainability. With a forward-thinking vision and a passion for the sea, Marine Tech is poised to make a significant impact on both environmental preservation and the global water supply challenges. Whether it is for agriculture, industrial needs, or safe drinking water, the potential applications of this technology are vast and varied – delivering hope and practical solutions to meet the rising demands of a growing global population…
