A study on water conservation through atmospheric air extraction of water
International Journal of Development Research
A study on water conservation through atmospheric air extraction of water
Received 29th January, 2023 Received in revised form 21st February, 2023 Accepted 18th February, 2023 Published online 30th March, 2023
Copyright©2023, Rahul Ammanath et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
In arid and semi-arid areas with little rainfall, access to fresh water is a significant challenge. A possible solution to this issue is the extraction of water from atmospheric air. In this paper, recent research on the removal of water from atmospheric air in arid regions is reviewed. The review discusses a variety of methods, including hybrid systems that combine condensation, absorption, and adsorption. Due to its simplicity and efficiency, condensation is the technology for atmospheric water collection that is most frequently utilised. Studies have looked into the usage of metal, polymer, and textile materials as condensation surfaces, among other materials. Though less popular, absorption and adsorption techniques have shown promise for use in off-the-grid and remote locations. Multiple methods combined into hybrid systems have been shown to increase water yield and boost system effectiveness. These systems frequently employ solar power or other renewable energy sources to power the extraction process, or they combine a condensation surface with an absorption or adsorption material. Overall, the reviewed studies show that extracting water from atmospheric air is a practical method of supplying fresh water to arid regions. To make this solution practical for widespread adoption, however, cost-effective and sustainable technologies must still be developed. The article emphasises that because they are inexpensive and straightforward, passive condensation-based technologies like dew collectors and fog nets are most commonly utilised in arid regions. These systems rely heavily on good weather, yet they only produce a small amount of water. However, active condensation techniques like refrigeration and desiccation-based systems are more expensive and energy-intensive despite having higher yields. Methods for adsorption and absorption, such as zeolites, silica gels, and hygroscopic salts, have showed promise due to their ability to function in low-humidity environments as well as in off-the-grid locations. Solar stills are an example of a hybrid system that combines numerous techniques to increase water yield and system effectiveness. According to the article's conclusion, atmospheric water harvesting is a promising technology for supplying fresh water in arid regions, but further investigation and development are required to make it a practical and long-lasting solution. Technically speaking, the development, testing, and optimisation of various methods for extracting water from the air, such as condensation-based systems, desiccant-based systems, and fog collectors, are all included in the scope of atmospheric water harvesting. This entails developing materials and components, designing and engineering the systems, and optimising operational factors including temperature, humidity, and airflow. The assessment of any potential environmental effects of these systems, such as modifications to the local hydrology and biodiversity, is part of the scope of atmospheric water harvesting from an environmental standpoint, as is the creation of methods for reducing or managing those effects. This entails carrying out environmental impact analyses, assessing how well the systems are working, and putting the best sustainable water management practises into practise.within a socialIn addition to developing ways to ensure fair and inclusive water management, the scope of atmospheric water harvesting also includes evaluating the possible social and economic effects of these systems, such as changes in water availability and distribution. This entails carrying out social impact analyses, interacting with neighbourhood stakeholders and communities, and putting best practises for neighbourhood water management into practise. Overall, the extraction of water from atmospheric air in arid regions is a complex, interdisciplinary endeavour that necessitates coordination and cooperation amongst numerous disciplines, including engineering, environmental research, social science, and policy. The development and implementation of efficient and long-lasting solutions for solving water scarcity and ensuring everyone has access to safe and clean water are the ultimate goals of this endeavour.