Cellulose-Based Composite Materials for Fresh Water Extraction from Atmospheric Air

Abstract

The fibrous hybrid material was synthesized by suspension radical styrene polymerization on the surface of cellulose microfibers. The resulting material was used to prepare a thermally stable and mechanically strong porous composite matrix that was employed as a carrier for further precipitation of the hygroscopic agents: CaCl2 and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride. The obtained composite materials were used to capture atmospheric water at different relative humidity levels and extract fresh water. A composite material containing an ionic liquid (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride) as a hygroscopic agent demonstrated the best water absorption efficiency and reusability potential.