Prof. Joanna Aizenberg

Amy Smith Berylson Professor of Materials Science and Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Harvard University School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Asst. Prof. Jonathan Grinham

Assistant Professor of Architecture

Harvard University Graduate School of Design

Project Overview

The DryScreen system developed by an interdisciplinary team from SEAS and GSD aims to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), which currently account for 40% of a building's energy use and 20% of global carbon emissions. This novel technology uses a vacuum pump and water-selective polymer membrane to remove moisture from incoming air, providing a healthy connection to the outside without using high global-warming-potential refrigerants. DryScreen has been field-tested with promising results and has the potential to become a competitive market-ready product. The researchers are seeking funding to further demonstrate scalability and commercial viability, and ultimately enter the $137B global AC equipment market. 

Interested in this technology? Send a note to grid@harvard.edu. They are currently seeking partners in academia and industry to collaborate on further developments.