Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have accidentally stumbled upon a novel material that can pull water from the air without requiring external energy, offering a promising solution for addressing global water scarcity.
The breakthrough was made by combining hydrophilic nanopores and hydrophobic polymers, resulting in a unique material that condenses water vapor into tiny pores at low humidity. However, unlike conventional materials that trap water, this new material allows the water to rise to the surface, creating droplets.
According to Amish Patel, a chemistry professor who led the research, the material’s behavior is “physics-defying.” The researchers confirmed their findings by increasing the material’s thickness and noting an increase in water present. The droplets remained stable for extended periods of time, suggesting a self-sustaining feedback loop.
The discovery could help address global water scarcity, which is expected to affect nearly half of the world’s population by 2030. The new amphiphilic nanoporous material can be made from common polymers and nanoparticles through standard fabrication processes, making it simple and scalable for large-scale applications.
Potential uses for the material include passive water harvesters for dry regions, cooling systems for electronics, and smart coatings that react to humidity. The researchers are learning from biology to design better materials, which could lead to innovative solutions for sustainable energy and environmental challenges.
Source: https://www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/novel-material-water-air-structure-university-pennsylvania