Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology

Ali Mansoor Pasha

doi:doi:10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12

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Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology

Ali Mansoor Pasha^*

Published in Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Volume 13, Issue 2)

Received: 24 March 2025 Accepted: 10 April 2025 Published: 9 May 2025

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Abstract

This research article introduces an Advanced Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AAWH) system that leverages nanotechnology to address global freshwater scarcity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. By integrating hygroscopic Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), such as zirconium-based MOF-801, with solar thermal heating and advanced heat exchangers, the proposed system efficiently captures and condenses atmospheric moisture even in low-humidity environments (relative humidity (RH) < 20%). The AAWH system is energy-sustainable, utilizing solar energy to minimize operational costs and carbon emissions, and incorporates IoT-based smart monitoring for real-time optimization. The modular design ensures scalability for applications ranging from individual households to large-scale deployments in desert regions, disaster relief scenarios, and urban settings. The study highlights the system's potential to revolutionize freshwater access through its efficiency, environmental friendliness, and adaptability, supported by scientific principles of nanomaterial adsorption, solar thermal energy, and thermodynamics of condensation. In addition to research validation, the system demonstrated real-world viability through pilot projects in Dubai and flood-affected regions of Pakistan, producing up to 22 litres per day at 15% RH and 5,000 liters per day via portable units, respectively. It achieves water generation at a significantly lower cost compared to desalination and compressor-based AWGs, with minimal environmental footprint. Machine learning algorithms further optimize performance by predicting adsorption-desorption cycles. By combining sustainable energy, smart automation, and advanced materials, the AAWH system presents a transformative solution for water-stressed regions, contributing directly to climate resilience and global water security as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). The article emphasizes the scalability, cost-effectiveness, and policy relevance of this technology.

Published in	Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Volume 13, Issue 2)
DOI	10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12
Page(s)	108-115
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Atmospheric Water Harvesting, Nanotechnology, Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), Solar Thermal Heating, Internet of Things (IoT), Sustainability, Disaster Relief, Climate Change, Renewable Energy

References

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[2]	Yaghi, O. M., et al. (2019). "Metal-organic frameworks for water harvesting: A new frontier." Renewable Energy Journal, 142, 567-578.
[3]	Li, J., et al. (2022). "Thermodynamics of condensation in advanced heat exchangers for atmospheric water harvesting." Journal of Thermal Science, 31(4), 1234-1245.
[4]	Hanikel, N., et al. (2021). "Rapid cycling and exceptional yield in a metal-organic framework water harvester." Science, 374(6567), 454-459.
[5]	United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2023). Annual Report 2023. Nairobi: United Nations Environment Programme. Retrieved from https://www.unep.org/resources/annual-report-2023
[6]	Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). (2023). Dubai Pilot Project Report: Atmospheric Water Harvesting at Al Maktoum Solar Park. Dubai, UAE: DEWA.
[7]	Kim, H., et al. (2018). "Water harvesting from air with metal-organic frameworks powered by natural sunlight." Science, 356(6336), 430-434.
[8]	Lin, H., et al. (2023). "Metal-organic frameworks for water harvesting and concurrent carbon capture: A review for hygroscopic materials." Scientific Reports, 13, 8923.
[9]	Boyd, P. G., et al. (2019). "Thermal design and management of adsorption systems using MOFs for water and CO₂ capture." ScienceDirect, 287, 117-129.
[10]	Çengel, Y. A., & Boles, M. A. (2020). Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
[11]	Owens, L., et al. (2023). "New nanotechnology speeds water from air harvesting." Cosmos Magazine. Available at: https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/new-nanotechnology-speeds-water-from-air-harvesting/
[12]	Talaat, M., et al. (2020). "Solar-powered extraction of potable water from dry air using zeolite-based adsorbents." Daily News Egypt. Available at: https://www.dailynewsegypt.com/2020/10/13/researchers-develop-solar-powered-extraction-of-potable-water-from-dry-air/
[13]	Jahan, I., et al. (2022). "Enhanced water sorption onto bimetallic MOF-801 for energy conversion applications." Journal of Nanomaterials, 2022, 1-15.
[14]	Othman, S. H., et al. (2019). "Water sorption and mechanical properties of starch/chitosan nanoparticle films." Journal of Nanomaterials, 2019, 1-12.
[15]	World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Annual Report 2023. Geneva: World Health Organization.
[16]	UN Water. (2022). Annual Report 2022. Geneva: United Nations. Retrieved from https://www.unwater.org/publications/un-water-annual-report-2022
[17]	International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). (2023). Annual Report 2023. Abu Dhabi: IRENA.
[18]	U. S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). (2023). Annual Energy Outlook 2023. Washington, DC: U. S. Department of Energy. Retrieved from https://www.eia.gov/outlooks/aeo/

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APA Style

Pasha, A. M. (2025). Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology. Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, 13(2), 108-115. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12

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ACS Style

Pasha, A. M. Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology. J. Electr. Electron. Eng. 2025, 13(2), 108-115. doi: 10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12

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AMA Style

Pasha AM. Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology. J Electr Electron Eng. 2025;13(2):108-115. doi: 10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12

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@article{10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12,
  author = {Ali Mansoor Pasha},
  title = {Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology
},
  journal = {Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering},
  volume = {13},
  number = {2},
  pages = {108-115},
  doi = {10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.jeee.20251302.12},
  abstract = {This research article introduces an Advanced Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AAWH) system that leverages nanotechnology to address global freshwater scarcity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. By integrating hygroscopic Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), such as zirconium-based MOF-801, with solar thermal heating and advanced heat exchangers, the proposed system efficiently captures and condenses atmospheric moisture even in low-humidity environments (relative humidity (RH) < 20%). The AAWH system is energy-sustainable, utilizing solar energy to minimize operational costs and carbon emissions, and incorporates IoT-based smart monitoring for real-time optimization. The modular design ensures scalability for applications ranging from individual households to large-scale deployments in desert regions, disaster relief scenarios, and urban settings. The study highlights the system's potential to revolutionize freshwater access through its efficiency, environmental friendliness, and adaptability, supported by scientific principles of nanomaterial adsorption, solar thermal energy, and thermodynamics of condensation. In addition to research validation, the system demonstrated real-world viability through pilot projects in Dubai and flood-affected regions of Pakistan, producing up to 22 litres per day at 15% RH and 5,000 liters per day via portable units, respectively. It achieves water generation at a significantly lower cost compared to desalination and compressor-based AWGs, with minimal environmental footprint. Machine learning algorithms further optimize performance by predicting adsorption-desorption cycles. By combining sustainable energy, smart automation, and advanced materials, the AAWH system presents a transformative solution for water-stressed regions, contributing directly to climate resilience and global water security as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). The article emphasizes the scalability, cost-effectiveness, and policy relevance of this technology.
},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology

AU  - Ali Mansoor Pasha
Y1  - 2025/05/09
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12
T2  - Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
JF  - Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
JO  - Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
SP  - 108
EP  - 115
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2329-1605
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12
AB  - This research article introduces an Advanced Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AAWH) system that leverages nanotechnology to address global freshwater scarcity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. By integrating hygroscopic Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), such as zirconium-based MOF-801, with solar thermal heating and advanced heat exchangers, the proposed system efficiently captures and condenses atmospheric moisture even in low-humidity environments (relative humidity (RH) < 20%). The AAWH system is energy-sustainable, utilizing solar energy to minimize operational costs and carbon emissions, and incorporates IoT-based smart monitoring for real-time optimization. The modular design ensures scalability for applications ranging from individual households to large-scale deployments in desert regions, disaster relief scenarios, and urban settings. The study highlights the system's potential to revolutionize freshwater access through its efficiency, environmental friendliness, and adaptability, supported by scientific principles of nanomaterial adsorption, solar thermal energy, and thermodynamics of condensation. In addition to research validation, the system demonstrated real-world viability through pilot projects in Dubai and flood-affected regions of Pakistan, producing up to 22 litres per day at 15% RH and 5,000 liters per day via portable units, respectively. It achieves water generation at a significantly lower cost compared to desalination and compressor-based AWGs, with minimal environmental footprint. Machine learning algorithms further optimize performance by predicting adsorption-desorption cycles. By combining sustainable energy, smart automation, and advanced materials, the AAWH system presents a transformative solution for water-stressed regions, contributing directly to climate resilience and global water security as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). The article emphasizes the scalability, cost-effectiveness, and policy relevance of this technology.

VL  - 13
IS  - 2
ER  -

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Author Information

Ali Mansoor Pasha

Graduate of Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0009-0007-0636-4066

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Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Pasha, A. M. (2025). Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology. Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, 13(2), 108-115. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12

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ACS Style

Pasha, A. M. Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology. J. Electr. Electron. Eng. 2025, 13(2), 108-115. doi: 10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12

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AMA Style

Pasha AM. Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology. J Electr Electron Eng. 2025;13(2):108-115. doi: 10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12,
  author = {Ali Mansoor Pasha},
  title = {Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology
},
  journal = {Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering},
  volume = {13},
  number = {2},
  pages = {108-115},
  doi = {10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.jeee.20251302.12},
  abstract = {This research article introduces an Advanced Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AAWH) system that leverages nanotechnology to address global freshwater scarcity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. By integrating hygroscopic Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), such as zirconium-based MOF-801, with solar thermal heating and advanced heat exchangers, the proposed system efficiently captures and condenses atmospheric moisture even in low-humidity environments (relative humidity (RH) < 20%). The AAWH system is energy-sustainable, utilizing solar energy to minimize operational costs and carbon emissions, and incorporates IoT-based smart monitoring for real-time optimization. The modular design ensures scalability for applications ranging from individual households to large-scale deployments in desert regions, disaster relief scenarios, and urban settings. The study highlights the system's potential to revolutionize freshwater access through its efficiency, environmental friendliness, and adaptability, supported by scientific principles of nanomaterial adsorption, solar thermal energy, and thermodynamics of condensation. In addition to research validation, the system demonstrated real-world viability through pilot projects in Dubai and flood-affected regions of Pakistan, producing up to 22 litres per day at 15% RH and 5,000 liters per day via portable units, respectively. It achieves water generation at a significantly lower cost compared to desalination and compressor-based AWGs, with minimal environmental footprint. Machine learning algorithms further optimize performance by predicting adsorption-desorption cycles. By combining sustainable energy, smart automation, and advanced materials, the AAWH system presents a transformative solution for water-stressed regions, contributing directly to climate resilience and global water security as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). The article emphasizes the scalability, cost-effectiveness, and policy relevance of this technology.
},
 year = {2025}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Solving the Global Issue of Freshwater Scarcity Through Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) Using Nanotechnology

AU  - Ali Mansoor Pasha
Y1  - 2025/05/09
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12
T2  - Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
JF  - Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
JO  - Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
SP  - 108
EP  - 115
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2329-1605
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeee.20251302.12
AB  - This research article introduces an Advanced Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AAWH) system that leverages nanotechnology to address global freshwater scarcity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. By integrating hygroscopic Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), such as zirconium-based MOF-801, with solar thermal heating and advanced heat exchangers, the proposed system efficiently captures and condenses atmospheric moisture even in low-humidity environments (relative humidity (RH) < 20%). The AAWH system is energy-sustainable, utilizing solar energy to minimize operational costs and carbon emissions, and incorporates IoT-based smart monitoring for real-time optimization. The modular design ensures scalability for applications ranging from individual households to large-scale deployments in desert regions, disaster relief scenarios, and urban settings. The study highlights the system's potential to revolutionize freshwater access through its efficiency, environmental friendliness, and adaptability, supported by scientific principles of nanomaterial adsorption, solar thermal energy, and thermodynamics of condensation. In addition to research validation, the system demonstrated real-world viability through pilot projects in Dubai and flood-affected regions of Pakistan, producing up to 22 litres per day at 15% RH and 5,000 liters per day via portable units, respectively. It achieves water generation at a significantly lower cost compared to desalination and compressor-based AWGs, with minimal environmental footprint. Machine learning algorithms further optimize performance by predicting adsorption-desorption cycles. By combining sustainable energy, smart automation, and advanced materials, the AAWH system presents a transformative solution for water-stressed regions, contributing directly to climate resilience and global water security as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). The article emphasizes the scalability, cost-effectiveness, and policy relevance of this technology.

VL  - 13
IS  - 2
ER  -

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