Even if that works, it may be subject to all the usual problems, such as filter clog. This is a big problem with hydrogen fuel cells, which require extremely pure hydrogen. It's a general problem with materials whose carefully constructed surface structure has some unusual property. The surface structure may be fragile.
A good example is NeverWet, the ultrahydrophobic coating. It repels water because the surface is composed of tiny spikes, and water's surface tension keeps the water supported on the surface of the spikes. This works so well that mud will run off of shoes treated with it. The effect, though, doesn't last long; even slight wear on the surface damages the micro-spikes. Reviews of the product on Amazon agree: great at first, useless within hours to days of use: (http://www.amazon.com/Oleum-274232-Never-Multi-Purpose/produ...).
A good example is NeverWet, the ultrahydrophobic coating. It repels water because the surface is composed of tiny spikes, and water's surface tension keeps the water supported on the surface of the spikes. This works so well that mud will run off of shoes treated with it. The effect, though, doesn't last long; even slight wear on the surface damages the micro-spikes. Reviews of the product on Amazon agree: great at first, useless within hours to days of use: (http://www.amazon.com/Oleum-274232-Never-Multi-Purpose/produ...).