Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed an innovative system that converts natural materials into absorbents capable of generating drinking water from air . Using a process based on biomass hydrogels, the team was able to extract up to 14.19 liters of clean water per kilogram of material , even in low-humidity environments.
How does this technology work?
The system is based on a molecular engineering process that transforms compounds such as cellulose, starch and chitosan into powerful absorbent materials. These hydrogels capture atmospheric humidity and, when slightly heated, release water ready for consumption.
Unlike other water harvesting technologies, this method minimizes energy use and employs biodegradable biomass , making it an environmentally friendly and scalable solution.
Comparison with other methods
Conventional water harvesting methods often require expensive infrastructure and high energy consumption. In contrast, this technology allows water to be extracted efficiently using accessible inputs such as food scraps, seashells and plant waste.
While other systems produce between 1 and 5 liters of water per kilogram of material, these hydrogels exceed that capacity up to three times , consolidating themselves as a viable alternative for communities with limited access to safe water sources.
A step towards the democratization of drinking water from the air
Guihua Yu, a professor at the Texas Materials Institute, noted that this innovation represents a universal strategy to turn almost any biomass into an efficient water harvester. The ease of implementation and potential for scalability pave the way for its use in rural areas, humanitarian relief efforts, and decentralized supply systems.
The research was published in the scientific journal Advanced Materials , consolidating its impact in the field of water innovation. The UT Austin team is currently working on optimizing production and developing portable devices that facilitate the collection of drinking water on a daily basis.
This technology could transform access to water in vulnerable communities and also marks a step forward in research into sustainable water sources.
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Source and photo: University of Texas at Austin
