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THE WEATHER AND ATMOSPHERIC RIVERS. HYDROGEL WITH HIGH WATER ABSORPTION CAPACITY: A study on conjoined-network induced highly tough hydrogels using copolymer and nano-cellulose reported excellent mechanical properties, strong strength, and good stability and durability for oilfield water plugging applications (ScienceDirect). MAXSPLECT NANO-TECH PHOSPHREE: A commercial product, Maxspect Nano-Tech Phosphree, has a maximum water absorption capacity of ∼1250 g/g, suitable for removing 3 ppm of phosphate from 1000 liters (264 gallons) of marine/reef aquarium water. Key Takeaways: Chitosan-based hydrogels can achieve high water absorption capacities (up to 500 g/g). Fumed nano-silica modified PVA-chitosan composite hydrogels can enhance evaporation rates and efficiency for solar-driven interfacial evaporation. Conjoined-network induced hydrogels with nano-cellulose can exhibit excellent mechanical properties and high water absorption capacities. Commercial products like Maxspect Nano-Tech Phosphree can remove high amounts of phosphate from water, demonstrating the potential for nano-tech hydrogels in water treatment applications. Future Research Directions: Investigating the effects of different nano-particles and cross-linking agents on water absorption capacities and mechanical properties of hydrogels. Developing novel hydrogel structures and compositions for specific applications, such as oilfield water plugging or seawater desalination. Exploring the potential of nano-tech hydrogels in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, such as wound healing or controlled drug release. Follow up What are the optimal chitosan-to-cross-linker ratios for achieving highest water absorption capacities in nano-tech hydrogels? Can nano-tech hydrogels with tailored surface chemistries be designed for selective ion removal or nutrient uptake in aquatic systems? How do different types of nanoparticles (e.g., silica, carbon, metal oxides) influence the water absorption and desorption kinetics of nano-tech hydrogels?