Water shortage and food are two concerns for the development of societies in the following decades. Solving both issues at the same time is a complex objective that might require complex solutions, but perhaps simpler is better. A recent study carried out in Australia has developed a system that can achieve this. The foundation of its operation is based on biomimicry.
The device created is cylindrical, entirely translucent and has two main sections. At the bottom sea water and a photothermal evaporator allow sunlight to evaporate water through a process called interfacial solar evaporation (ISE). Water vapor rises to a cross section located in the middle through side belts, while salt is deposited at the bottom. This intermediate surface is saturated with condensed water and is transported upward to a second chamber, where liquid is spread over soil. In it, broccoli, lettuce and pac choi seeds have been previously placed for growth.
The results were very interesting. After the third day the broccoli began to grow; After two weeks the other two plants began to grow at visible levels. The germination rate of the three crops was more than 80%. Surprisingly, this system produced more fresh water than the crop needs, so the excess can be used as drinking water. In this way it is possible to produce food and water through an infinite source of energy (solar) and using natural cycles such as water. Regarding the principles of biomimicry, the system applies local tuning and response, the use of life-friendly chemistry and efficiency in the use of resources. It is expected that in the coming months these devices can be scaled to larger sizes.
Source: Anthropocene
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