Researchers in Australia have achieved a stunning scientific breakthrough by developing a new type of paint that serves two crucial purposes: it can reduce the surface temperature by up to 6 degrees Celsius, and more significantly, it can distill fresh water from the surrounding atmosphere. This invention offers a low-cost and sustainable solution to the global challenges of water scarcity and rising temperatures.
Developed through a collaboration between a team from the University of Sydney and the startup Dewpoint Innovation, this advanced paint has the dual capability of helping keep buildings cool during extreme heat conditions and potentially mitigating water shortages in arid and drought-stricken regions worldwide.
Six Months of Successful Testing:
After six months of rigorous testing, it was found that this specialized paint can collect 390 millilitres of water per square meter daily. In practical terms, this means that the daily required amount of water for one person can be easily harvested from a surface area of approximately 12 square meters coated with the paint. This capability offers a beacon of hope for drought-affected communities.
Professor Chiara Neto from the University’s Nano Institute stated, “This technology does not just advance the science of coatings applied to roofs; it also paves the way for low-cost, sustainable water sources.” Her statement suggests that this innovation could make access to clean drinking water significantly easier in the future.

