Fog water collection of harp-like single smooth and texturized filaments under field conditions

Abstract

Harp-like arrangements of filaments have been proposed as a more efficient alternative to cross-linked screens for fog water collection. We investigate the fog capture capabilities of both smooth and texturized single vertical nylon threads under field conditions. Redefining the Stokes number in terms of the wetted string and the pinning drop geometry allowed the average fog water collection efficiency to be described using a physically based droplet impaction model with acceptable fit (NSE = 0.614; RMSE = 0.093). In addition, rugosity of the filaments was found to affect the long-term fog water yield (up to 41 % lower), while parallel grooves along the filaments maximised the fog collection, with 51 % improvement, under real field conditions.