UV-triggered material harvests water from air by reshaping crystals into moisture traps

University of Iowa chemists developed a UV-responsive metal-organic crystal that reshapes itself to trap water from air.

In lab tests, the material stored about 5% of its weight in water after light-triggered formation of internal cavities.

The proof-of-concept suggests a sunlight-powered, low-energy route to atmospheric water harvesting.

The team still needs safer building blocks and higher water capacity before the material can be practical.