Cambridge science competition winners revolutionize atmospheric water harvesting technology with an efficient new system.
In a breakthrough that could help millions facing water scarcity, four high school students from Thailand won the prestigious 2024 Cambridge Science Competition by developing innovative atmospheric water harvesting technology that transforms moisture into clean drinking water.
The team from Anglo Singapore International School beat out 307 other competing teams to claim the “Best in World” title with their atmospheric moisture condensation system. Their invention addresses a crisis affecting over 2 billion people worldwide who lack access to clean water, with the United Nations projecting this number could double by 2040 due to climate change and population growth.
The winning device combines three key components working in harmony to pull water from the air. The heart of the system is a high-efficiency refrigeration pump that circulates eco-friendly coolant through the system. This connects to an advanced cooling module featuring a network of copper tubes coated with a hydrophilic material that attracts water molecules. The third component is a specialized collection surface with microscopic grooves that maximize water capture – similar to how desert beetles harvest morning dew on their backs.
When warm, moisture-laden air comes into contact with the cooling surface and reaches its dew point – the temperature at which water vapor begins to condense, typically between 15-20°C (59-68°F) – the system captures the moisture and channels it through the purification process.
The team engineered the surface angles to use gravity for water collection, eliminating the need for additional pumps. Initial testing shows the system can produce up to 50 liters of water per day in optimal humidity conditions (above 60% relative humidity), with an energy consumption of approximately 0.3 kWh per liter of water produced – about the same energy as running a small window air conditioner for an hour. The system performs best in tropical and subtropical climates where humidity levels remain consistently high.
The team’s atmospheric water harvesting technology stands out for its efficiency compared to existing solutions. While commercial atmospheric water generators typically consume 0.4-0.6 kWh per liter, the students’ design achieves a 25-50% reduction in energy usage through innovative cooling system modifications and optimized airflow patterns.
Laboratory testing revealed impressive water quality results: the water maintains a perfectly neutral pH level of 7, contains minimal salt, and includes mineral content comparable to distilled water. Most importantly, tests showed no detectable bacterial contamination. The system’s air purification process uses a multi-stage filtration system that removes 99.9% of airborne contaminants.
“Through this project, I realized the immense scale of water scarcity worldwide,” said team member Kunathorn “Ken” Jesdaviriya. “While our project may not immediately solve the problem, I am hopeful that one day, someone from our team will contribute to a lasting solution.”
The victorious team consists of students ZiKe Huang, Tan Hiranwat, Jintaporn Seemunta, and Kunathorn Jesdaviriya. Their teacher mentor, Sajjath Ahmed, witnessed their tremendous growth throughout the project. “Seeing the growth of these students as young scientists has been incredibly rewarding,” Ahmed said. “They have become more confident, collaborative, and passionate, creating something truly impactful.”
See also: Mini Desalination Plants Could Cure California’s Droughts.
The Cambridge Science Competition specifically targets students aged 14 to 16, encouraging them to conduct independent scientific investigations alongside their Cambridge IGCSE or Cambridge O Level studies. This extracurricular challenge aims to nurture scientific passion while developing practical skills for addressing real-world problems.
Rod Smith, Group Managing Director for International Education at Cambridge, emphasized the broader significance of the student’s work: “These projects exemplify how young minds can harness science to solve pressing challenges like sustainability. Cambridge remains committed to inspiring learners to shape the future and create a better world.”
With water scarcity affecting communities globally and featuring prominently among the United Nations’ sustainability goals, innovations like this atmospheric water harvesting technology could play a crucial role in future solutions. The team’s success demonstrates how young scientists can contribute meaningful solutions to complex global challenges.
