Texas Team Turns Biomass into Water-Harvesting Sorbents

A team at The University of Texas at Austin has engineered a system that transforms biomass into high-efficiency sorbents, capable of extracting potable water from the air. This sustainable solution addresses global water scarcity by utilizing materials like discarded food scraps and branches. The "molecularly functionalized biomass hydrogels" convert organic matter into substances that absorb liquids, yielding several gallons of clean water daily, even in arid climates, with minimal energy input. Professor Guihua Yu noted this breakthrough creates a universal molecular engineering strategy, opening new avenues for sustainable water collection. Field tests produced 14.19 liters of clean water per kilogram of sorbent daily, far exceeding traditional sorbents. The biomass-based hydrogel is biodegradable and scalable, relying on a two-step molecular engineering process to impart hygroscopic and thermoresponsive properties. Lead researcher Weixin Guan emphasized the simplicity, sustainability, and scalability of this approach, tapping into nature's resources to produce water from air. The team is now focused on scaling production and designing portable water harvesters, irrigation systems, and emergency drinking water devices for commercialization. Graduate researcher Yaxuan Zhao highlighted the potential for large-scale deployment in off-grid communities and emergency relief efforts.