Outdoor Testing of Double Slope Condensation Surface for Atmospheric Water Harvesting

Original Authors: Karim H. Awad, Mohamed M. Awad, and Ahmed M. Hamed

Introduction

As water scarcity becomes an increasingly critical issue worldwide, innovative solutions are required to secure sustainable water sources. One such solution is the extraction of water from the air, an approach that holds promise particularly for arid regions lacking conventional water sources. This essay explores the use of a double slope condensation surface system designed for the efficient harvesting of atmospheric moisture.

Methodology

The double slope condensation system operates on a simple yet effective principle: capturing atmospheric moisture using a desiccant and condensing the moisture into water using solar energy. This system consists of two main components: a desiccant bed impregnated with calcium chloride to absorb water vapor overnight, and a transparent, double-sloped surface that covers the bed during daylight to condense the vapor released by the heated desiccant.

Key to the system’s design is its use of locally available materials and passive solar heating, making it not only sustainable but also cost-effective. The setup was tested in various configurations to optimize moisture capture and water production, under different seasonal and weather conditions.

Experimental Findings

The experiments conducted revealed that the system could consistently capture and condense water vapor, achieving an average water production rate that demonstrates the feasibility of using this technology in water-scarce environments. Notably, the desiccant bed managed to harvest a significant volume of water vapor, which was then efficiently condensed during the day under solar heating, thus completing the cycle of water vapor absorption and desorption.

Economic Viability

An in-depth economic analysis highlighted the cost-effectiveness of the double-slope condensation system, with water production costs estimated to be competitive compared to more traditional water supply methods like desalination, which typically have higher operational and initial setup costs.

Conclusion

The double slope condensation system examined in this study offers a sustainable and economically viable solution for water scarcity issues in arid regions. By leveraging simple yet effective technology and locally available materials, such systems can be implemented to provide a continuous supply of fresh water with minimal environmental impact. Future research could explore enhancements in desiccant materials and system designs to further increase water yield and efficiency, making atmospheric water harvesting a cornerstone of sustainable development in water-stressed regions.