Humidity Digester

Humidity Digester Keeps Rooms Cool and Energy Cost Low

The innovation developed by Assistant Professor Tan Swee Ching and his team from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering can not only reduce relative humidity by 12 percent, but also generate a low current under ambient light. Made up of a moisture-hungry hydrogel, cathode, photoanode and a solar cell, the humidity digester generates power by using light to oxidise water absorbed through the hydrogel. With the hydrogel constantly replenishing the system with water pulled from the air, the energy generation process is sustained – enabling continuous dehumidifying to occur. Although the energy generated currently is relatively low at 0.4 milliampere per square centimetre, it has the potential of replacing air conditioners when paired with fans. Compared to commercial air conditioning units, the humidity digester can improve thermal comfort with significantly less energy input. In addition, it is easier to install, portable and cheaper to operate.

“The world population is increasing, and people spend a lot of money on air conditioners to maintain adequate thermal comfort. The increasing need for air conditioners to cool us down results in increased energy consumption. This device – when coupled with a fan – can help reduce relative humidity, improve thermal comfort and, most importantly, reduce reliance on air conditioners. This could lead to potential energy and monetary benefits.”

– Asst Prof Tan Swee Ching, Department of Materials Science and Engineering