A system, as easy to carry as a bag, with double the energy efficiency and moisture collection capacity of conventional technologies.
An eco-friendly technology, inspired by the natural mechanisms of plants and animals, has been developed for the first time in South Korea, marking a significant leap in sustainable water harvesting. Researchers at the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), under the leadership of Dr. Hyuneui Lim, have created a portable moisture-harvesting system that captures moisture from the air, purifies it, and produces drinkable water. This technology promises wide-ranging applications, from military operations to remote camping and survival scenarios, where access to potable water is crucial.
The development focus on creating a compact, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution for water scarcity. The system weighs only three kilograms and has already received test certifications from public agencies, verifying both its water harvesting performance and the safety of the drinking water it produces. The team plans to commercialize the technology through a partnership with Puresys, aiming to offer a range of products, from portable units to larger-scale systems.
The core technology behind this moisture-harvesting system is a cycle of adsorption, desorption, condensation, and sterilization. This process allows for the efficient collection of moisture, doubling the energy efficiency compared to traditional dehumidification devices. A unique feature of the system is its ability to sterilize bacteria on cooling fins by rapidly heating them to 80 degrees Celsius, ensuring that the collected water is safe for consumption. The water is then purified using an eco-friendly, biodegradable filter made from diatoms.
Traditional moisture collection systems, such as dehumidifiers and air conditioners, often face challenges related to noise, weight, and environmental impact due to refrigerants. In contrast, new system utilizes thermoelectric modules, significantly enhancing moisture collection efficiency while reducing energy consumption. The team emphasized the global significance of this technology, stating, “This development is a meaningful advancement in enabling the production of drinking water in areas where it is scarce. “They are committed to establishing systems that provide safe potable water worldwide, addressing critical issues like water shortages and droughts.
