Researchers at the University of Rochester have created a solar-powered system that converts seawater into fresh water while avoiding the production of harmful liquid brine. The technology uses laser-textured panels to evaporate water and collect salts as solids.
The system employs black metal panels treated with femtosecond lasers to absorb sunlight and wick seawater across an active surface. As water evaporates, salts are directed to passive regions using the coffee ring effect, preventing clogs during operation. Tests with samples from the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans confirmed continuous fresh water extraction and self-cleaning performance.
