Solar Atmospheric Water Generation from air

1.1 billion people worldwide do not have access to water, and a total of 2.7 billion cannot access clean water for at least one month of the year. Because of this, more than 2 billion people are exposed to diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, and other water-borne illnesses. 

The situation of water scarcity will get worse if we continue at the current consumption rate. It is expected that nearly two-thirds of the population worldwide will face water scarcity by 2025.

Desalination could be the solution to water scarcity. However, it is an energy demanding process that requires access to a sweater, which is not the case for many locations worldwide.

Atmospheric water generation (AWG) is a process of producing potable water from humid ambient air. Different techniques were studied to extract water from the air; condensation is the most common. The process is independent of any access to water and only requires water vapour, always available in ambient air. 

This project aims to investigate a new design of Atmospheric water generation powered by solar. This research will use different techniques to explore energy materials and low-energy processes for water generation.

Academic qualifications

A second class honour degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering

English language requirement

If your first language is not English, comply with the University requirements for research degree programmes in terms of English language.

Application process

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor, Dr Nazmi Sellami (Email: n.sellami@napier.ac.uk) to discuss the content of the project and the fit with their qualifications and skills before preparing an application. 

The application must include: 

Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about

• Background and motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
• Research questions or
• Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
• List of references

The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.

• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Recent and complete curriculum vitae. The curriculum must include a declaration regarding the English language qualifications of the candidate.
• Supporting documents will have to be submitted by successful candidates.
• Two academic references (but if you have been out of education for more than three years, you may submit one academic and one professional reference), on the form can be downloaded here.

Applications can be submitted here.

Download a copy of the project details here.