An efficient self-driven fog harvesting system based on a Kelvin waterdrop generator†

Abstract

As a promising approach to address freshwater scarcity, fog harvesting has attracted increasing attention in recent years. The electric field-assisted fog harvesting method holds significant potential for large-scale applications, but the inconvenience, high cost, and hazards associated with high-voltage supply limit its broader use. Herein, a self-powered fog harvesting system driven by a Kelvin waterdrop generator (KFHS) is developed to overcome these challenges. By applying a high electric field through the Kelvin waterdrop generator, the fog harvesting efficiency of the KFHS is 2.6 times that of a system without the generator. Furthermore, the KFHS demonstrates higher fog harvesting efficiency at a lower fogging rate, making it particularly suitable for regions with low fog density to harvest sufficient water.