Nobel Winner Omar Yaghi's Tech Makes Water From Dry Air in 2026

This new technology can make 200-400ml of water per day from just 1kg of special material, even in very dry air. This is a big change for places with little water.
By Newsroom | Science, Environment |

A scientific breakthrough by Nobel laureate Professor Omar Yaghi offers a new way to create drinking water from the air, even in very dry places. This invention could help communities facing water shortages due to climate change and extreme weather. The technology uses special materials called Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) to capture water vapor from the atmosphere.

Water Scarcity and the Need for New Solutions

Many parts of the world struggle with not having enough clean water. This problem is getting worse because of climate change, which leads to:

  • More intense heat waves and droughts.

  • Stronger storms that can damage water systems.

  • Challenges for small island nations that rely on imported water.

These issues highlight the urgent need for new ways to get water, especially in areas with limited access to traditional water sources or when existing systems fail.

‘Reimagining matter’: Nobel laureate invents machine that harvests water from dry air - 1

How the Technology Works

Professor Yaghi's invention uses a material called Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs).

  • MOFs are like tiny sponges with a very large surface area.

  • They can soak up water vapor from the air.

  • This process can happen even when the air is very dry.

  • The captured water can then be released as clean drinking water.

One specific MOF developed, MOF-303, is an aluminum-based material that is efficient and cost-effective. According to reports, one kilogram of this material can produce between 200 and 400 ml of water per day, depending on the weather.

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  • This technology does not require electricity or complex pumping systems.

  • Some designs can even operate off-grid without any external energy.

  • This offers a climate-friendly and sustainable alternative to methods like desalination, which can harm ocean ecosystems.

The Inventor's Journey and Vision

Professor Omar Yaghi's personal experiences deeply shaped his work.

‘Reimagining matter’: Nobel laureate invents machine that harvests water from dry air - 2

  • He grew up in Jordan, where water was scarce, and learned about the fragility of water access from a young age.

  • As a child, he was responsible for fetching water and managing household supplies.

  • A chance encounter with a chemistry book at age 10 set him on the path to scientific research.

  • He later earned a PhD and pursued research at institutions like Harvard University.

His work has led to the founding of a company called Atoco, which aims to commercialize this air-to-water technology.

  • Atoco plans to demonstrate a prototype machine that can produce about 53 gallons (200 liters) of water per day.

  • The company is looking at ways to provide water for communities affected by drought and also for green hydrogen plants.

Addressing Global Challenges

The invention holds promise for various situations:

  • Disaster Relief: It could provide water to communities affected by hurricanes, like those in Carriacou and Petite Martinique after storms such as Beryl. Mr. Baker mentioned that this technology addresses challenges like the high cost and carbon impact of importing water.

  • Drought-Stricken Regions: The technology could offer a reliable water source in areas experiencing prolonged dry seasons.

  • Remote and Underserved Areas: Its ability to work off-grid makes it suitable for communities with limited traditional water infrastructure.

Expert and Investor Interest

The Nobel Prize win for Professor Yaghi's work is expected to boost interest and investment in the technology.

  • Atoco is working towards demonstrating the prototype's capabilities.

  • While the company has not commented on fundraising, it is anticipated that the Nobel recognition will attract investors.

  • Other Nobel laureates have also become entrepreneurs, suggesting a precedent for this path.

Potential Applications and Future Outlook

Beyond immediate water supply, MOFs have other potential uses:

  • Storing gases.

  • Capturing carbon dioxide.

  • Acting as catalysts in chemical reactions.

The scalability of this water harvesting technology is a key focus, allowing for its potential use in diverse environments. The technology is seen as a way to replace or supplement conventional desalination, which often requires significant energy and produces harmful byproducts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does Nobel laureate Omar Yaghi's new technology get water from dry air?
Professor Omar Yaghi's invention uses special materials called Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs). These MOFs act like tiny sponges that soak up water vapor directly from the air, even when the air is very dry. The captured water can then be released as clean drinking water.
Q: How much water can Professor Yaghi's MOF material produce per day?
One kilogram of the MOF material, like the aluminum-based MOF-303, can produce between 200 to 400 milliliters of water each day. The exact amount depends on the weather conditions.
Q: What makes this air-to-water technology different from other methods like desalination?
This technology does not need electricity or complex machines to work, and some versions can operate off-grid. It is also a climate-friendly option because it does not harm ocean ecosystems, unlike desalination which can have negative environmental impacts.
Q: When will this water harvesting technology be available for communities?
Professor Yaghi's company, Atoco, plans to show a working prototype machine that can produce about 200 liters (53 gallons) of water daily. The technology is being developed for use in disaster relief and drought-stricken regions.
Q: Why is Professor Omar Yaghi's work important for places with water shortages?
The technology offers a sustainable and accessible way to get drinking water in areas facing water scarcity due to climate change, droughts, or damaged water systems. It can provide water in remote places or during emergencies when traditional water sources are unavailable.