A self-sufficient system for fog-to-water conversion and nitrogen fertilizer production to enhance crop growth

Zhenwen Zhang, Tong Li, Yongjiu Yuan, Zhi Zhang, Chen Ling, Xiaoxue Yao, Hongbo Wang, Wai Kin Lo, Qili Xu, Jun Liu, Yun Hau Ng, Long Teng () and Steven Wang ()
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Zhenwen Zhang: City University of Hong Kong
Tong Li: City University of Hong Kong
Yongjiu Yuan: City University of Hong Kong
Zhi Zhang: City University of Hong Kong
Chen Ling: City University of Hong Kong
Xiaoxue Yao: City University of Hong Kong
Hongbo Wang: City University of Hong Kong
Wai Kin Lo: City University of Hong Kong
Qili Xu: City University of Hong Kong
Jun Liu: City University of Hong Kong
Yun Hau Ng: City University of Hong Kong
Long Teng: University of Cambridge
Steven Wang: City University of Hong Kong

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract Crops require water and fertilizers to grow. However, the shortage of freshwater limits the regions where plants, especially crops, can be grown, and the misuse of chemical fertilizers imposes a burden on the environment and human health. This study develops a self-sufficient system that can passively capture water and produce plant nutrients from the air through the integration of a fog-to-water converter and a spark-type droplet-based electric generator. The proof-of-concept system, based on large-scale 3D wedged spines, achieves a fog-to-water conversion efficiency of 35% and yields nitrogen fertilizer at a rate of 2.38 mg per hour per liter of water droplets. Scaling this system could boost global wheat production by approximately 1 megaton annually, even if operated for a short period each day. This approach offers a self-reliant and potentially eco-friendly solution for agriculture.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60340-0

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