Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new system that can extract drinkable water from the air using natural materials. This technology, called “molecularly functionalized biomass hydrogels,” converts a wide range of materials, including food scraps, branches, and seashells, into sorbents that can absorb and release water.
The researchers used a two-step molecular engineering process to imbue the biomass with hygroscopic properties, allowing it to absorb water from the air. This process imparts thermoresponsive behavior to the biomass, making it possible to extract water even in dry conditions.
In field tests, the system was able to generate 14.19 liters (3.75 gallons) of clean water per kilogram of sorbent daily, making it more efficient than existing synthetic sorbents. The best part of this technology is that it’s biodegradable, scalable, and requires minimal energy to release water.
This innovation is part of a broader effort by the research team to develop sustainable solutions for people lacking access to clean drinking water. The primary goal is to create a water-harvesting system that is simple, sustainable, and scalable. The team is currently working on scaling up production and designing real-world device systems for commercialization, including portable water harvesters and self-sustaining irrigation systems.
The potential applications of this technology are vast, including off-grid communities, emergency relief efforts, and decentralized water systems. The researchers believe that this breakthrough has the potential to make a significant impact on global water access and will continue to work towards making this technology a reality.
Key benefits of this technology include:
* Abundance of biomass materials available for use
* Minimal energy required to release water
* Biodegradable and non-toxic
* Scalable for large-scale production