Fog-harvesting device inspired by beetle physiology

Shreerang Chhatre, a graduate student at MIT, create fog harvesting- device inspired by the physiology of a beetle to supply clean water in dry areas and hard water regions. The Gracilipes Stenocara beetle in Namib desert on the west coast of Africa can survive in dry areas without water by collects water from fog droplets on its bumpy back then roll down to its mouth to drink.

The device consist of a mesh panel in place of a net serves to attracts water from the fog with little absorption. The existing fog harvesters test can raise one liter of water per meter mesh for one day. It also works on solid materials such as plastic sheeting but creates wind currents that bring some moisture away.

Some methods to increase water production such as to improve the material for the mesh and the balance between hydrophilic materials (that attract water droplets) and hydrophobic material (that send them their way down into the collection container).
Although in laboratory, Chhatre has been successfully tested his fog harvester , but for further steps he would need financial assistance from potential groups interested in this technology. The technology interest and a few trail runs in Gautemala to provide water in a village of 150 people.

According to Shreerang, people in developed countries are also good to use the device to balance the consumption of fresh water from traditional sources.