Today’s Solutions: November 04, 2024

Pure drinking water may be a widely available commodity in developed countries, but in many other parts of the world, it’s still a scarcity. Many innovative solutions have been attempted, much like these ‘hydro panels’ from an Arizona-based startup, but there’s still a lot of work to be done before clean water becomes readily available around the globe.

In a bid to fast-forward progress on this urgent global challenge, a joint team of researchers from the US Army and the University of Rochester has joined forces to create an aluminum panel that uses solar power to accelerate water evaporation and purification.

To develop the new device, the team used a laser processing technology that turns regular aluminum pitch black, making it highly absorptive, as well as “super-wicking”, being able to work against gravity and wick water upwards on the panel.

Thanks to its pitch-black surface, the panel harnesses more energy from the sun and is able to keep hold of most of it to evaporate the water which in turn rids it of contaminants.

“These three things together enable the technology to operate better than an ideal device at 100 percent efficiency,” said Professor Chunlei Guo, professor of optics at the University of Rochester. “This is a simple, durable, inexpensive way to address the global water crisis, especially in developing nations.”

The system can cut down on impurities such as dye, urine, heavy metals, detergents, and glycerin to a level that’s safe for drinking. What’s also impressive is that the device is easy to clean and can be continuously adjusted so it follows the sun during the day thus maximizing energy absorption.

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

Out of Body Pop is creating safe spaces for neurodivergent music fans

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Out of Body Pop, a unique music event at London's EartH Kitchen, provides a space for neurodivergent people ...

Read More

How micro-meditations help reduce stress anytime, anywhere

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In today's fast-paced world, taking time for stress relief might be overwhelming—especially if you're already overburdened. The recommendation ...

Read More

How to naturally purify the air in your home

Since we’re spending more time than ever at home these days, it’s time we consider the quality of air in our homes. After all, ...

Read More

James Webb Space Telescope officially launches into space

As most of us were celebrating Christmas morning in December 2021, NASA was celebrating a different event: the successful launch of the James Webb Space ...

Read More