A promising technology: solar-driven interfacial evaporation with facilitation strategies, multifunctional applications and perspectives

Abstract

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) technology has evolved rapidly in the last decade and is an exciting scientific topic. With this high level of attention, it is necessary to continuously summarize previous research to develop SDIE technology well. Therefore, we have prepared this review article to summarize the latest progress in this field. First, photothermal conversion materials are introduced, which play an essential role in SDIE, including plasma metal nanoparticles, semiconductors, and carbon-based and polymer-based materials, and their photothermal mechanisms are explained. Second, strategies to improve SDIE performances, such as enhanced light absorption, water transmission channel design, and thermal management, are discussed, which can well modulate the evaporator performance and improve energy utilization efficiency. Subsequently, the applications of SDIE in various aspects including desalination, sterilization, sewage treatment, and simultaneous generation of water and electricity are presented in detail. At the end, we summarize some of the current bottlenecks encountered by SDIE, offer some insights into the ideal SDIE evaporator, and provide an outlook on the future development of SDIE technology. The potential of SDIE is being demonstrated in a variety of applications and it promises to be a green, economical solution to energy and water shortage problems in the future. This review aims to promote the research and practical application of SDIE and contribute to its development.