The new device can capture water from the arid desert atmosphere

In field trials, a new device can draw water from the desert air in Tempe, Arizona. New technology can allow people to survive in some of the harshest regions on earth.

The new device is described in Nature - this is an improved version of the device first released last year. When researchers at MIT unveiled the device for the first time in 2017, skeptics with the device made many controversial comments about the device's true water-harvesting feature.

The new device can capture water from the arid desert atmosphere Picture 1

Evelyn Wang, MIT's mechanical engineering professor, said in a press release: "All the questions raised over the years are clearly presented in this new article. We have confirm and solve those questions ".

This device uses metal-organic frames, a unique material with an open surface area and a molecular trap structure. Current water harvesting devices require high humidity and high energy use.

Attractive material is painted black above to encourage the absorption of sunlight. The steam is pulled into the small inner holes of the material, where the difference in temperature and concentration causes condensation and drift.  down to the bottom.

Scientists tested their new device on the roof of an Arizona State University university - "the area is also a fairly arid place and shows that we can harvest water." Wang said.

This new device works first with sunlight. Tests show that the device harvests 1/4 liter of water every day. Tests also show that water is potable and no impurities.

By replicating the technology and finishing of organic metal frames, scientists hope to triple the amount of water produced in their technology.