The Innovative and Smart Solar-Powered Atmospheric Water Harvesting System for Clean and Reliable Water Solutions
摘要
Water scarcity in resource-limited and arid locations, especially in refugee camps and remote communities in the MENA region, remains a critical global challenge up to this day. This study showcases the design, development, and testing of a solar-powered Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) system that integrates technologies such as Metal–Organic Framework (MOF), Vapor Compression Refrigeration (VCR), and Thermoelectric Cooler (TEC) to optimally extract the water vapor from the ambient air. A systematic review and design assessment led to a configuration using MOF coated trays, aided by VCR and TEC devices to enhance the moisture extracting and thermal control. The system was evaluated in three main modes under fixed environmental conditions as 42% relative humidity. The VCR mode provided a robust performance with 3.5 L/day, with 2.9 kWh/L. Integrating MOF into the system, along with the VCR, increased the water yield up to 4.6 L/day at moderate energy consumption of 4.9 kWh/L. Boost mode, which included all the subsystems (VCR, MOF, and TECs), achieved the highest yield of 5.1 L/day, yet it demanded the highest energy consumption at 8.3 kWh/L. These results highlight the trade-off between energy consumption and the water yield. The device energy and, integrating renewable energy, and offering potential for AI-driven optimization. It is a potential solution for off-grid, emergency, and humanitarian usage, with promising chance for commercialization.