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https://www.positive.news/environment/novel-paint-could-aid-drought-hit-regions/>
"A paint that cools buildings whilst simultaneously harvesting water from the
air has been unveiled by scientists at the University of Sydney, Australia. The
nano-engineered polymer was created in conjunction with startup Dewpoint
Innovations, and reflects sunlight, cooling buildings by up to 6°C inside.
Not only does it reduce the need for energy-hungry air-conditioning systems,
but the porous structure of the coating creates ideal conditions for
atmospheric water vapour to condense into droplets on the cooler surface, the
way steam condenses on a bathroom mirror. The fresh water dew is then harvested
and can be used as water for animals, for horticulture of high-value plants,
for use in cooling by misting, or even for use in hydrogen production.
“This technology not only advances the science of cool roof coatings but also
opens the door to sustainable, low-cost and decentralised sources of fresh
water – a critical need in the face of climate change and growing water
scarcity,” said the university’s Prof Chiara Neto. “While humid conditions are
ideal [for the paint], dew can form even in arid and semi-arid regions where
night-time humidity rises. It’s not about replacing rainfall but supplementing
it – providing water where and when other sources become limited."
Share and enjoy,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
