Air Collection: Extracting Water from the Atmosphere
In a groundbreaking development, a new fog harvesting technology has proven to be an effective solution for water scarcity in dry regions. This technology, tested in real-world situations, can gather hundreds of liters of water daily from fog using a small mesh area.
The technology's passive design, requiring no energy, makes it an attractive solution for areas with limited access to electricity. This feature, combined with its low cost - ranging from $1.4 to $16.6 per cubic meter - makes fog harvesting a viable option for places struggling with water shortages.
Researchers have been working tirelessly to improve the efficiency of these systems. For instance, they have developed hydrophilic coatings that collect water equally well and are beneficial for water treatment. These coatings allow water to form a thin film on the mesh, facilitating fast pollutant removal.
Another innovative approach involves the use of nanoengineered fog collectors with titanium dioxide nanoparticles. These react to sunlight, breaking down pollutants in the water, ensuring the collected water is clean and safe.
Scientists are also exploring the use of natural materials like spider silk to enhance the efficiency of fog harvesting systems. Meanwhile, researchers in Australia have created synthetic surfaces similar to the beetle's shell in the Namib Desert to boost fog harvesting efficiency.
The new method is not only cost-effective but also sustainable and off-grid, providing a viable solution for rural areas without easy access to water. FogQuest, a Canadian group, plays a significant role in bringing fog harvesting to these regions. They check if fog collection is feasible in a location, build small systems, and assist with larger projects.
The technology's performance in real-world testing has been impressive, with hydrophilic-coated meshes collecting water and removing pollutants effectively. On average, it can collect between 5.3 to 13.4 liters of water per square meter each day, depending on the season, fog density, and wind speed.
As the world's population continues to grow, so does the need for fresh water. Over 2 billion people currently struggle to find clean water. Fog harvesting and treatment systems could be a key solution to this growing problem, offering a green and smart way to provide clean water to dry places where it is hard to find.
New developments in fog harvesting technology are being pursued to meet the growing need for clean water worldwide. Researchers are working hard to tailor these systems to local needs and air pollution, ensuring they are effective in various environments. This technology holds great promise in addressing one of the world's most pressing issues - the global water crisis.
