The effect of surface-free energy and microstructure on the condensation mechanism of water vapor

Obtaining high-water-yield drinking water in arid areas without consuming energy is still a global challenge. Since water vapor is ubiquitous, atmospheric water harvesting technologies are undoubtedly one of the most promising candidates. A typical water condensation process is analyzed in this paper (nucleation, self-growth, coalescence and sliding). The mechanisms of interactions between adsorbate and water vapor are discussed. The effect of surface-free energy and microstructure on water vapor condensation is described. Finally, the main problems in developing more efficient, high-water-mass and high-cycle-stability atmospheric water collectors are summarized, and the future development trend has been prospected.