Modified metal-organic framework-based polymer materials for atmospheric water harvesting and liquid water storage

Atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) emerges as a promising technology to address the challenge of water scarcity by efficiently harnessing the abundant water present in the atmosphere. This study focuses on enhancing the performance of zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), particularly MIP-202, which is recognised for its facile synthesis and eco-friendly characteristics. Through post-synthesis modifications, MIP-202 was tailored for application as a cross-linking agent in the fabrication of hygroscopic polymer material (MPA) via free radical polymerisation alongside acrylic acid radicals. Our investigation centers on assessing the atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) capacity of MPA across varying humidity levels and its efficacy in liquid water storage. Experimental findings demonstrate MPA's broad adsorption spectrum, from 30% to 90% relative humidity, with adsorption capacities ranging from 44.6 mg/g to 1372.4 mg/g. At a solar intensity of 1 kW/m 2 (equivalent to 1 sun), the desorption rate reaches 0.39 kg/m 2 /h. Following ten cycles of adsorption-desorption experiments, MPA maintains a stable adsorption capacity of 824 mg/g, retaining 95.7% of the initial adsorption capacity. The straightforward synthesis process of MPA, coupled with its enhanced water vapour trapping capability and consistent cyclic stability, positions it favourably as a promising material for atmospheric water harvesting applications.