Multi-physical field synergistic driving for Solar-Driven Interfacial Evaporation: mechanisms, strategies and system optimization

Abstract

Solar-driven interfacial water evaporation (SDIWE) is a promising technology for seawater desalination and wastewater treatment, as it converts solar energy primarily at the solid-liquid-gas interface. However, its performance depends on a coupled system of light absorption, heat transfer, fluid flow, mass transport, and phase change, rather than photothermal conversion alone. High evaporation rates often compromise energy efficiency or long-term salt stability. This review analyzes SDIWE from a multiphysical field coupling perspective, focusing on the trade-off between evaporation flux and salt resistance. It re-evaluates evaporation enhancement strategies and their limitations in high-salinity environments, then categorizes salt-management approaches (structural regulation, material design, hydrodynamic assistance, salt recovery) and examines how advanced architectures mitigate salt accumulation. The role of multiphysics models in mechanism analysis and device design is also discussed.Finally, key engineering barriers are identified, including system optimization, adaptive materials, model-experiment integration, and standardized scale-up evaluation. This work provides a system-oriented framework for developing SDIWE devices with high performance and robust salt tolerance.