Atmospheric Moisture Harvesting Device: Biomimicking Torrey Pine Needles

Overview

3D Systems By 2025, two-thirds of people could be living with freshwater scarcity. Harvesting atmospheric moisture is an innovative method to alleviate this crisis. Torrey Pine tree needles are well known for their atmospheric moisture harvesting abilities. This study is focused on learning their surface structures and properties at a microscopic level and identifying the characteristics that contribute to efficient harvesting. A fog harvesting device with a surface treatment is being developed that biomimicks Torrey Pine needles for drought-stricken areas. My work can be concluded in the following three areas: Torrey Pine needle surfaces were observed microscopically to contain alternating rows of hydrophobic stomata and hydrophilic ridges, creating a hydrophilic/hydrophobic micro-pattern. Their harvesting process was videoed on the microscopic level. Image processing in MATLAB revealed w ater droplets condense first on the ridges, shift over when enough water condenses, and roll down the valleys. Additionally, foliar water uptake was observed. Controlled harvesting testing and theoretical analysis concluded that micro-patterns increase water droplet mobility and improve the moisture harvesting rate compared to homogeneous hydrophilic surfaces. Water droplet mobility tests were conducted to explain why the micro-pattern improved the wa ter harvesting rate. I found three features that can be biomimicked: alternating hydrophilic/hydrophobic micro-pattern, ridge/valley structure, and needle tip-up orientation. Many CAD designs and mock-ups were created to maximize the total surface area, enable large airflow, and balance the condensation and transportation rate. An optimized portable device can potentially be as efficient as a 14m 2 fog net.

Awards (1)

• 3rd Place Life Sciences

Competition history

• JSHS 2020 Category not listed

Resources

• National JSHS abstract book ↗

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