Project 11

Data-Driven Design of Janus and Gradient Nanofiber Membranes for Fog Harvesting

(prof. kevin walsh & Dr. Dilan Ratnayake, ECE Dept.)

This project will investigate AI-guided design of electrospun nanofiber membranes for fog harvesting and atmospheric water collection. Building on prior research by the team, the REU student will explore how membrane architecture influences water capture, transport, retention, and evaporation. AI-assisted tools will be used to identify promising hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials (cured PVA, PVDF, etc) and guide membrane design. The project will compare conventional Janus membranes, interwoven fiber structures, and a novel gradient architecture with continuously varying properties (Figure 5). Using electrospinning, optical and SEM microscopy, water contact angle measurements, and controlled fog-collection testing, the student will develop and evaluate next-generation membrane designs for low-cost water collection in water-scarce regions. Students interested in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or Chemistry are excellent candidates for this project.