Professor Zhenyuan Xu of Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s School of Mechanical Engineering has been awarded the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award in the Youth Award category, recognizing his groundbreaking work in passive solar desalination technology. The award was presented during a June 4 ceremony in Dubai, honoring global pioneers who leverage renewable energy to address water scarcity.

 

Breakthrough Technology

Professor Xu’s winning innovation—" Passive Solar Distillation system with ultra-high efficiency and extreme salt resistance"—developed in collaboration with MIT, delivers record-setting performance:

1-5.78 liters of potable water per hour per square meter, even in ultra-high-salinity environments.

2-A modular system using layered solar evaporators and transparent aerogel insulation to passively recycle solar heat across multiple stages.

3-Zero electricity required, with all materials low-cost and widely accessible, making it ideal for remote or disaster-stricken communities.

 

Impact and Vision

The technology provides a scalable, portable solution for off-grid regions where conventional desalination is impractical. In his acceptance speech, Professor Xu emphasized:

" The global water crisis will worsen as populations grow and human activity strains resources. This award affirms the importance of renewable energy solutions. It motivates me to move beyond academic research and focus on real-world applications that benefit communities and support a more sustainable future for all."

Award Significance

The biennial award, established in 2015 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, champions innovations that tackle the global water crisis using sustainable energy. With a total prize fund of $1 million, it supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation). Professor Xu is the sole winner in the Innovative Individual Award – Youth Awardcategory this year.

 

 

https://www.mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2025/june/10-06/mohammed-bin-rashid-honours