University of Vienna scientists transform plastic waste into water-harvesting sponges

Chemists at the University of Vienna have developed a method to transform various types of plastic waste into polymer networks that act as molecular sponges capable of harvesting water from the air, even in arid climates. These materials absorb moisture from the atmosphere and release it when subjected to moderate heating, such as sunlight.

The researchers successfully utilized discarded materials, including polystyrene packaging, old polycarbonate compact discs, and ABS plastic LEGO bricks, to create these adsorbents. By treating aromatic polymers with sulfuric acid, the team added sulfonic acid groups that attract water molecules, creating a porous network with tiny internal spaces designed for repeated cycles of moisture capture and release.

This innovation offers a potential decentralized or supplementary water source, addressing the dual environmental challenges of plastic pollution and global water scarcity.