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Grabbing water from the air: NUS researchers develop advanced aerogels for autonomous atmospheric water harvesting

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An inventive, energy-efficient solution to combat the escalating global freshwater crisis

SINGAPORE, Dec. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The world is on the brink of a freshwater crisis. Estimations indicate that by 2025, half of the world’s population may reside in areas facing water scarcity. In response to this challenge, researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a novel aerogel designed to enhance the efficiency of atmospheric water harvesting.

This development, led by Associate Professor TAN Swee Ching from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering under the College of Design and Engineering at NUS, offers a practical solution to the pressing issue of freshwater scarcity, particularly in arid regions.

The aerogel is capable of absorbing moisture from the air up to about 5.5 times its weight, maintaining its performance across a wide range of humidity levels, and effective even in conditions as low as 20 per cent relative humidity, making it suitable for diverse environments. Demonstrating the aerogel’s applicability, the research team has integrated it into a solar-driven, autonomous atmospheric water generator that efficiently collects and releases freshwater without requiring external energy sources.

Tapping into the atmosphere

The Earth’s atmosphere holds an estimated 13,000 trillion litres of water — representing an untapped reservoir that could potentially alleviate water scarcity across many arid and drought-prone regions across the globe. However, the challenge has always been to efficiently convert water vapour into a usable resource, considering the variability of atmospheric conditions and the energy demands of current technologies.

Sorption-based atmospheric water harvesting (SAWH) employs sorbents to extract water from the air, presenting a low-energy, easy-to-operate solution applicable across diverse environments, including regions with limited resources. Despite its potential, SAWH faces challenges with conventional sorbents such as activated alumina, silica gels and zeolites, which either have inadequate water uptake or require high temperatures for water release. Although newer sorbents, including hygroscopic salts and metal-organic frameworks, improve upon these aspects, they struggle with issues like deliquescence and agglomeration, which compromise their efficiency and water sorption capacity. Additionally, SAWH devices are generally incapable of supporting more than one water capture-release cycle daily, limiting their utility for continuous and large-scale freshwater production.

Addressing these limitations, the NUS researchers tapped into their creativity to craft a more adaptable and energy-efficient material for SAWH. By converting magnesium chloride into a super hygroscopic magnesium complex and incorporating it into aerogels composed of sodium alginate and carbon nanotubes, they developed a composite aerogel that overcomes the drawbacks of previous technologies.

Like a sponge, the aerogel absorbs water vapour directly from the air into its porous structure, where it condenses and is stored until needed. When exposed to sunlight or a slight increase in ambient temperature (around 50 deg C), the aerogel releases the stored water as fresh, liquid water. The process is facilitated by the aerogel’s unique composition, which combines the moisture-attracting properties of the magnesium complex with the thermal properties of carbon nanotubes — enabling rapid water absorption and release.

Key properties of the aerogel include its high water uptake capacity — about 5.5 times its weight at 95 per cent relative humidity and 27 per cent of its weight at 20 per cent relative humidity, typical of desert climates. Moreover, its robust structure allows for repeated use without a loss in efficiency. It is also cost-efficient to produce — raw materials necessary for producing one square metre of the aerogel cost only US$2.

“The aerogel exhibits rapid absorption/desorption kinetics with 12 cycles per day at 70 per cent relative humidity, equivalent to a water yield of 10 litres per kilogramme of aerogel per day,” said Assoc Prof Tan. “Carbon nanotubes play a crucial role in boosting the aerogel’s photothermal conversion efficiency, enabling quicker water release with minimal energy consumption.”

From concept to reality

The researchers have also designed and constructed a fully solar-driven, autonomous atmospheric water generator that incorporates two layers of the novel aerogel. Each layer alternately engages in the water absorption/desorption cycle, operating without any external energy input. This setup showcases the aerogel’s practicality for facilitating continuous freshwater production — a feature beneficial in underdeveloped regions or areas lacking necessary clean-water infrastructure.

Potential applications of this technology are vast, encompassing evaporative cooling and energy harvesting to smart sensing and urban agriculture. The team has filed a patent for their technology.

The NUS researchers are looking forward to collaborating with local farms and industry partners alike to advance their research and commercialise their technology.

Read more at: https://news.nus.edu.sg/advanced-aerogels-for-autonomous-atmospheric-water-harvesting/

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SOURCE National University of Singapore

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PureTech Systems Unveils Rapid Deploy Autonomous Perimeter Surveillance System (RDAPSS) with Counter-Drone Capabilities

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PHOENIX, Dec. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — PureTech Systems Inc., a leader in geospatial AI-boosted video analytics for wide-area perimeter and border security, is proud to announce the launch of its Rapid Deploy Autonomous Perimeter Surveillance System (RDAPSS) configured for Drone detection and tracking. Designed to meet the demands of rapid, flexible security deployments, the RDAPSS delivers unmatched autonomous surveillance and can be equipped with an advanced sensor suite, including counter-drone capabilities.

The RDAPSS is an all-in-one, self-powered solution for organizations requiring immediate, reliable drone detection and awareness either as an addition to an existing security system or as a new standalone system. The system features PureTech’s patented AI-boosted video analytics for a near 100% autonomous detection of humans, drones, animals and vehicles, with a near-zero nuisance alarm rate. The RDAPSS adapts to diverse mission profiles, including critical infrastructure protection, border control, special events and temporary facility monitoring.

Key Features of RDAPSS Include:

Rapid Deployment: Designed for ease of transport and installation, RDAPSS can be fully operational within minutes.

AI-Boosted Perimeter Surveillance: Equipped with PureTech’s PureActiv® software, RDAPSS delivers real-time, autonomous detection and tracking of targets of interest.

Multi-Sensor Integration: Supports a tailorable sensor suite, including radar, cameras, and RF sensors for maximum threat detection.

Counter-Drone Capabilities: Detects, identifies, and tracks drones to help you mitigate unauthorized aerial threats.

Scalable: Operates independently or as part of a larger surveillance network, enhancing operational flexibility.

“As security challenges continue to evolve, the need for adaptable, autonomous surveillance solutions has never been greater,” said Larry Bowe, President of PureTech Systems. “The RDAPSS combines rapid deployment with advanced sensor integrations and AI-boosted video analytics to address emerging threats, including the growing risks posed by drone intrusions.”

With its customizable sensor suite and counter-drone capabilities, RDAPSS empowers security teams to detect and mitigate ground and aerial threats with unmatched precision and efficiency.

For more information about the RDAPSS or to schedule a demonstration, visit www.puretechsystems.com or contact us at info@PureTechSystems.com.

About PureTech Systems
PureTech Systems Inc. is a privately owned company established in 2004 that develops, markets, and supports its patented location-based AI-boosted video analytics software, PureActiv©, for real time safety and security applications. Their primary emphasis is on autonomous perimeter intrusion detection of ground and aerial targets for country borders, coastlines, facility perimeters, and critical infrastructures (pipelines, railroads, dams, bridges, ports, utilities, power plants, military bases, and airports). To find out more about PureTech Systems Inc. visit our website at www.puretechsystems.com, call 602-424-9842 or email info@PureTechSystems.com.

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SOURCE PureTech Systems Inc.

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Your Best Defense Against Water Leaks: Qwel™ is Here to Help Protect Your Home and Save You Money

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Qwel is now shipping from its U.S.-based facility, offering homeowners advanced water monitoring, peace of mind, and reduced insurance costs

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Dec. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Notation Labs, Inc. unveiled Qwel™, a cutting-edge leak detection and prevention system that gives homeowners unmatched control over their water lines. Featuring the most accurate flow sensor on the market and a user-friendly mobile app with automatic and remote water shut-off, Qwel allows users to monitor, detect, and prevent leaks anytime, anywhere.

Water damage affects thousands of homeowners daily, with 14,000 leaks reported nationwide and average repair costs of $12,000. Left unchecked, leaks can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and long-term health risks for residents.

Qwel serves as a homeowner’s first line of defense against leaks, combining advanced AI and machine learning technology with unmatched integration. Designed for ease of installation and reliability, Qwel is compatible for the typical range of pipe sizes, making it easy for plumbers to integrate into most residential plumbing systems. Qwel’s highly accurate sensors monitor multiple critical factors including water pressure, water temperature, ambient temperature, humidity, and water quality to provide a comprehensive safeguard against leaks.

“Our mission with Qwel is to empower homeowners with the tools they need to protect their homes and conserve water,” said Guy Newman, CEO of Notation Labs, Inc. “Water damage is one of the most costly and disruptive issues a homeowner can face, and Qwel’s innovative technology offers a proactive, reliable solution. By combining cutting-edge leak detection with user-friendly features, we’re helping families take control of their water systems and prevent problems before they start.”

Smart Features of Qwel include:

Major and minor leak alerts for early detectionCustomizable alerts for personalized monitoringAutomatic and remote water shut-off for instant controlAt-home and away detection modes for tailored coverageFreeze warning notifications to prevent pipe damageQwel Check™ performs a comprehensive health check of your home’s water system overnight

Enabled with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Qwel connects seamlessly to the soon-to-launch Qwel Mobile App which leverages advanced AI and machine learning to analyze a home’s unique water usage patterns. Beyond preventing leaks, the app empowers homeowners to optimize water usage by providing 24/7 real-time and historical data. With U.S. households wasting over one trillion gallons of water annually, Qwel offers an effective solution to reduce waste while maintaining convenience and comfort.

Qwel is manufactured in the USA and systems are shipping to select wholesalers now. Learn more at https://www.qwel.io/.

About Notation Labs, Inc.: 
Notation Labs designs, engineers, and manufactures innovative smart water solutions to deliver high-quality products that empower homeowners. With a suite of advanced technologies, the company helps educate consumers on water conservation and equips them to make sustainable choices in their everyday lives.

Driven by a mission to protect water resources for future generations, Notation Labs is at the forefront of water conservation efforts, leveraging breakthroughs in AI, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The company is committed to making cutting-edge, water-saving devices that are not only highly effective but also affordable and accessible to households worldwide.

By combining engineering excellence with a focus on sustainability, Notation Labs is redefining how consumers manage and conserve water.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/your-best-defense-against-water-leaks-qwel-is-here-to-help-protect-your-home-and-save-you-money-302335368.html

SOURCE Notation Labs, Inc.

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Facilitron Empowers School Districts with Policy Innovations at Facilitron University 3

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Insights Shared on Modernizing Policies, Driving Transparency, and Fostering Community Engagement

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Facilitron, the leading provider of facility management solutions for school districts, brought together education leaders from across the nation at Facilitron University 3 to share insights on best practices in facility use and management. In an engaging session titled “Policies That Power Success: Compliance, Efficiency, and Best Practices,” panelists spotlighted how modernizing policies can foster community engagement, ensure compliance, and drive operational efficiency.

The session featured an all-women panel of district leaders who shared their expertise and success stories, emphasizing the critical role of clear, data-driven policies in transforming school district operations. Panelists represented districts from California, Texas, and Oregon, showcasing diverse approaches to common challenges.

Key Takeaways: Policies as Tools for Success

Facilitron’s platform emerged as a central enabler of the strategies discussed during the panel. Highlights included:

Policy Modernization for Strategic Goals
Districts like North Clackamas (OR) utilized the pandemic downtime to revamp policies, ensuring alignment with community feedback and financial sustainability.
“The pandemic pause gave us time to overhaul everything—policies, processes, fees—and align with community feedback,” said Natalie Whistler, Director of Community Services.

Data-Driven Transparency
Fort Bend ISD (TX) and San Diego Unified (CA) demonstrated how data empowers districts to communicate the financial realities of policy decisions, ensuring buy-in from stakeholders and maintaining accountability.
“We use data to arm the board and leadership with the information they need to stand firm when pushback happens,” noted Genyne Vinson, Assistant Director of Enterprise Funds.

Revenue Sharing for Stakeholder Engagement
Anaheim Union High School District (CA) shared how revenue-sharing models incentivize principals and athletic directors to embrace facility rentals, creating a win-win scenario for districts and schools.
“Revenue-sharing gets ADs and principals on board. It turns rentals from a burden into an opportunity,” said Van Chu, District Facility Use Specialist.

Facilitron’s Role in Driving Change

The discussion underscored how Facilitron’s innovative platform enables school districts to simplify operations, enforce compliance, and foster community partnerships through tools that support:

Transparent, Data-Driven DecisionsStreamlined Policy Communication and EnforcementEquitable Revenue ModelsModernized, Adaptable Policies

Grace Vote, Director of Accounts at Facilitron and moderator of the panel, emphasized:
“Policies aren’t just documents—they’re tools for building trust, setting boundaries, and driving strategic success.”

Looking Ahead

Facilitron remains committed to equipping school districts with the insights and tools they need to meet today’s challenges while planning for the future. The company’s focus on transparency, equity, and efficiency continues to empower districts to align operational goals with community needs.

For more information on Facilitron and its platform, visit www.facilitron.com.

About Facilitron:
Facilitron is a leader in facility management solutions, providing school districts with tools to modernize policies, streamline operations, and maximize community engagement. Through its innovative platform, Facilitron empowers districts to make data-driven decisions, ensure compliance, and foster equitable facility use systems.

Media Contact:
Mercer Brockenbrough
Mercer@facilitron.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/facilitron-empowers-school-districts-with-policy-innovations-at-facilitron-university-3-302335371.html

SOURCE Facilitron

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