Watermakes

Watermakes is a term used to describe systems, devices, or, in some contexts, hypothetical organisms designed to produce liquid water from ambient resources. Broadly, watermaking encompasses technologies and processes that generate, collect, or purify water without relying solely on conventional freshwater sources.

The term appears in environmental engineering discussions as well as in speculative science and fiction, where it denotes approaches that turn humidity, groundwater, or saline water into usable water. It is not tied to a single method but to a class of solutions that convert ambient resources into potable water.

Mechanisms include atmospheric water generation, which condenses water vapor from humid air; adsorption-desorption cycles using desiccants; and fog harvesting, which collects droplets with mesh collectors. Additional approaches integrate desalination and water reuse to maximize yield in arid environments. Some concepts explore bioinspired moisture regulation in materials.

Applications span off-grid households, disaster relief, remote operations, and future space habitats. Effectiveness depends on local humidity, energy availability, and water quality requirements; lifecycle costs and maintenance are important considerations for adoption.

Although watermaking is diverse, common research aims include reducing energy use, increasing capture efficiency, and lowering material costs. Advances in porous materials, solar integration, and modular design may expand practical use of watermakes while reducing reliance on traditional water sources.