With nine sponge cubes, each weighing 0.8 grams, 15 milliliters of water can be absorbed from the atmosphere. Credit: Shu Shu Zheng, RMIT University
In a remarkable advancement, scientists have developed a solar-powered device capable of extracting clean drinking water from the arid air of deserts.
Turning Sunlight and Air into Water
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have engineered a device that mimics natural processes to draw moisture from the air using solar energy. This system operates without manual maintenance, making it a promising solution for water scarcity in arid regions.
Nature-Inspired Design
The device utilises a self-sustaining cycle inspired by plant mechanisms. It captures moisture from the air during cooler periods and releases it as liquid water when heated by the sun. This approach ensures continuous water production without external energy inputs.
A pair of tweezers squeezes water from the spongy material developed by the team. Credit: Xingying Zhang
Implications for Water-Scarce Regions
With over 2.2 billion people living in water-stressed areas, this technology offers a sustainable and affordable method to access clean water. Its low maintenance and reliance on abundant solar energy make it particularly suitable for remote and arid communities.
Reference: “Development and characterization of novel wood-based composite materials for solar-powered atmospheric water harvesting: A machine intelligence supported approach” by Xingying Zhang, Yangyang Xu, Shenjie Han, Xiang Weng, Wenbo Che, Kongjie Gu, Ying Guan, Youming Yu, Derek Hao and Junfeng Hou, 28 February 2025, Journal of Cleaner Production.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2025.145061
Looking Ahead
As climate change intensifies and water scarcity becomes more prevalent, innovations like this solar-powered water harvester could play a crucial role in ensuring water security. Further research and development may enhance its efficiency and scalability, bringing hope to regions in dire need of reliable water sources.
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