Revolutionary IISc Solar Still Produces 6 Liters of Clean Water Per Hour, Enhancing Water Security in Remote Areas

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed an innovative solar still capable of producing up to 6 liters of clean water per hour from contaminated or saline sources. Unlike traditional designs, this new system uses a black absorber sheet created with heat-absorbing nanoparticles and a super-absorbent material that mimics the water-storing abilities of plants to speed up evaporation and condensation processes. It’s a significant step toward providing safe drinking water in remote or disaster-affected areas without relying on electricity.

Tested under real-world conditions in Bengaluru, the solar still demonstrated a purification efficiency of 45%, significantly higher than the 30% seen in conventional models. Designed to be portable and cost-effective, it promises an affordable and eco-friendly solution for water-scarce regions. IISc researchers also plan to scale the device to meet larger community demands, making it a promising tool in the global effort to ensure water security.

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