Time: 2024-07-25
The Earth 's atmosphere contains a vast amount of water , equivalent to filling Utah 's Great Salt Lake 800 times over . This abundant resource could potentially provide clean drinking water to billions of people facing water shortages worldwide . However , existing technologies for atmospheric water harvesting ( AWH ) have limitations in terms of size , cost , and efficiency . New research from the University of Utah has introduced a groundbreaking compact rapid cycling fuel - fired AWH device that could revolutionize the way we tap into the atmosphere for water.
The innovative device developed by Sameer Rao and Nathan Ortiz utilizes hygroscopic materials , particularly metal organic frameworks , to extract water molecules from non - humid air . These materials have a high affinity for water vapor and can selectively adsorb water molecules , making them ideal for gas separation . The device 's design allows for the capture of significant amounts of water using minimal material , with just a gram of the material possessing a surface area equivalent to two football fields.
The research has received support from the DEVCOM Soldier Center , indicating potential military applications for the technology . However , Rao and Ortiz emphasize that the device also addresses civilian water needs , producing up to 5 liters of water per day per kilogram of adsorbent material . The technology 's versatility and efficiency make it a promising solution for providing clean drinking water in arid environments where water sources are scarce.
The proposed system for atmospheric water extraction features a unique mass transport bridges ( MTBs ) structure infused with a salt solution that acts as a liquid sorbent . This design allows for continuous water capture from the atmosphere and freshwater generation using solar energy . The system 's efficiency is enhanced by the optimal design of the MTBs structure , ensuring the seamless transport of water and sorbents throughout the water production process.
Performance evaluations of the system have demonstrated its capability to produce freshwater efficiently under varying humidity conditions . The completely passive and maintenance - free operation of the system sets it apart from other atmospheric water extraction technologies . The system 's year - round water production capacity in different regions has been analyzed , with promising results for water - stressed areas.
Field tests of the system have validated its real - world application and utility , with a larger prototype demonstrating significant water production rates . The quality of water produced by the system meets drinking water standards , making it safe for consumption and irrigation purposes.
In addition to providing clean drinking water , the developed system has shown promise in off - grid irrigation applications . By using water extracted from the air , the system can sustain plant growth without relying on traditional water sources . Field tests have confirmed the system 's ability to support plant growth through efficient irrigation using atmospheric water.
The system 's scalability and passive operation make it a viable solution for irrigation in water - scarce regions . The innovative design of the system enables autonomous , point - of - use irrigation , offering a sustainable way to address water scarcity and reduce reliance on ground water resources.
By harnessing solar energy and leveraging natural processes like transpiration , the system represents a revolutionary approach to water extraction and irrigation , with the potential to transform water supply and agriculture in remote and water - stressed regions.
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