Turbine that converts humidity into potable water
DUBAI: A wind turbine that captures humidity from the air and turns it into drinking water could be used in offshore developments.
A two-year test for the experimental device, developed by the French company Eole Water, will start in Dubai this year on an artificial island owned by the Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG), in the Waterfront.
"If all goes well we'd love to purchase it and keep it there on a more permanent basis," said Amie Lenkowiec, a project manager at EMEG.
"This is an exciting development and could work for other islands that don't have access to drinking water."
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This shows application of wind energy and rich content of water vapor available in air. Noble use of turbine theory /application.It is appreciated.
I don't doubt for a moment that such a device is possible; however, what I do doubt is the efficiency to cost ratio; the EROEI (energy return on energy invested).
Where will Dubai obtain the energy necessary to power the wind turbine; where will the water it collects be stored; what about evaporation of collected water; what will the water cost / will people be able to afford it; and what is the fresh water needs of Dubai and how much will this process deliver ?