The concept of extracting water from the air we breathe has always seemed like something out of science fiction, but recent revolutionary research out of UNLV is turning this idea into a reality. With a megadrought affecting the water supply in the Southwest, this groundbreaking technology is proving to be a game-changer in addressing water scarcity in low-humidity environments. Led by UNLV mechanical engineering professor H. Jeremy Cho, the research team has developed a new approach to atmospheric water harvesting that allows for large amounts of water to be extracted from the air, even in areas with humidity levels below 30%.
Published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the research demonstrates that this new technology can capture water at a rapid rate and generate up to a gallon of water per day from just one square meter of surface area in places like Las Vegas. The technology has been tested in real-world conditions and is effective down to 10% humidity levels. By using a hydrogel membrane “skin” inspired by nature, specifically tree frogs and air plants, the process of capturing water in a liquid salt solution is made more efficient and suitable for subsequent processing into drinking water or energy production.
One of the key advantages of this technology is that it can be powered by solar energy, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for water harvesting. With places like Las Vegas experiencing an abundance of sunlight, the energy needed to generate water from the air can be provided by solar panels, reducing the overall cost of the process. This innovative approach to atmospheric water harvesting has the potential to revolutionize water resource management in arid regions and help address the growing challenges of water scarcity and climate change.
The research conducted by UNLV has already led to the creation of a startup company called WAVR Technologies, Inc., which aims to commercialize devices capable of extracting water vapor from the air for various uses. Co-founded by H. Jeremy Cho, this startup is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines program, which focuses on developing technologies that address regional sustainability and climate concerns. By bringing this technology to market, WAVR Technologies, Inc. is helping to promote sustainable water practices and create new opportunities for individuals and businesses to access clean drinking water.
As water resources continue to deplete and climate change accelerates, it has become increasingly important to find innovative solutions to address these challenges. The atmospheric water harvesting technology developed by UNLV and deployed by WAVR Technologies, Inc. is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and research in creating sustainable solutions for water scarcity. By harnessing the power of nature and technology, this groundbreaking approach is not only turning science fiction into reality but also paving the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come.