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Technology created by researchers from Australia and China transforms air humidity into drinking water using only sunlight, without electricity and at low cost.
Australian and Chinese researchers have developed a material that can turn moisture from the air into drinking water using only solar energy.
The novelty, called WLG-15, works without electricity, has a low cost and can be used in disaster areas, arid zones and places without access to infrastructure basic.
How the material was created
The innovation emerged from a partnership between RMIT University in Australia and five institutions in China. The WLG-15 is composed of three main elements: balsa wood, lithium chloride and iron oxide.
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Balsa wood, light and porous, serves as support and promotes absorption.
Lithium chloride is responsible for capturing moisture from the air, while iron oxide, in the form of nanoparticles, helps release the water absorbed when the material is heated by sunlight.
Simple and efficient operation
WLG-15 is molded into small cubes and placed in a cup with a rounded lid. When the lid is open, the material absorbs moisture from the air.
Then, when closing and exposing the system to sunlight, the heat activates the nanoparticles, which cause the water to evaporate and condense on the inside of the lid. The water then drains away and can be collected.
This process does not require electricity, which makes the system useful in emergency situations or regions without access to the electricity grid.
Laboratory test results
Under controlled conditions of 90% relative humidity, the material showed good results. One gram of WLG-15 was able to absorb 2 ml of water. In less than 10 hours, almost all of the water was released. With just nine cubes of less than 1 gram each, it was possible to obtain 15 ml of water.
The volume is not high, but the system is lightweight, modular and can be easily expanded. This allows it to be adapted to different water collection needs.
Advantages over other technologies
Compared to atmospheric water generators (AWG), which require electricity and can cost up to 15.800 euros, the WLG-15 stands out for being:
- Cheaper
- Portable
- Free of electricity
- Efficient even in places with little structure
Additionally, the material is reusable and cold-resistant, maintaining performance even after weeks of storage and use in sub-zero temperatures.
Practical and accessible applications
The new technology could be used to provide clean water in arid regions, in sustainable homes or in humanitarian missions after disasters.
Its production uses balsa wood, which is abundant and renewable, and does not include toxic materials such as asbestos.
The WLG-15 emerges as a practical solution to one of today's greatest challenges: access to drinking water.
It reduces dependence on large systems, uses clean energy and avoids environmental impacts associated with complex technologies.
The creation promises to benefit thousands of people around the world and shows how simple solutions can have a big impact when applied well.
