Experimental investigation and bottom-up life cycle assessment of forward osmosis desalination using thermo-responsive Janus microgels

Key Points

• Experimental investigation reveals a novel Janus microgel that enhances forward osmosis desalination.
• Key metric shows increased efficiency in the desalination process using these thermo-responsive materials.
• A multiscale model incorporated with life cycle assessment guides the development of more sustainable hydrogel architectures.
• This work suggests significant advancements in water purification technologies requiring further exploration and implementation.