Saline Beacon
CatalystIn Progress2025-26

Saline Beacon

Project Overview

Saline Beacon delivers safe, low-cost lighting using saltwater cells. The project focuses on efficient electrode selection, rugged enclosure design, and long runtime under real-world conditions.

Tech Stack

ElectrochemistryCircuit DesignPrototyping

Team

Mentors

  1. Jonathan James
  2. Adhil Ali
  3. Ivine Binu

Mentees

  1. John Jacob
  2. Yallapa H.U
  3. Aysha K.C

Problem Statement

Off-grid and emergency scenarios need affordable, safe lighting alternatives to costly disposable batteries.

Objectives

  • - Design a low-cost portable saltwater-powered lamp
  • - Reach around 50 lumens with 6-hour runtime
  • - Reduce electrode corrosion and improve safety

Methodology

The project follows a structured implementation approach that includes Test Zn/Cu and Mg/C electrode combinations, Implement high-efficiency buck/boost driver, Build waterproof enclosure with replaceable cartridges, and Validate voltage and capacity in series/parallel setups. These steps are executed iteratively to validate assumptions, improve performance, and ensure reliable delivery of the final solution.

Expected Outcome

By the end of this project, the team is expected to deliver Functional saltwater lamp prototype, Replaceable cartridge architecture, and Safety and durability validation for field use. Together, these outcomes reflect both technical feasibility and practical value for demos, evaluation, and future scaling.

Future Scope

  • - Pilot deployment in disaster-prone regions
  • - Modular cartridge improvements
  • - Multi-cell packs for charging small devices

Components and Budget

Container: Rs. 1,300

Electrodes: Rs. 1,000

Electrolytes: Rs. 200

LED: Rs. 200

Circuitry: Rs. 500