Recent advances in structural regulation and optimization of high-performance solar-driven interfacial evaporation systems

Abstract

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SIE) is a sustainable and efficient technology for producing clean water, which has promising applications in seawater desalination and wastewater treatment. In this review, the latest advances in SIE are introduced, including the synthesis and structural regulation of photothermal nanomaterials, the construction and optimization of interfacial evaporators, as well as the innovative design of SIE systems. Based on the three fundamental points of reducing heat loss, enhancing sunlight absorption and controlling water transport, effective regulation strategies to improve SIE performance are summarized and analyzed. The current challenges and opportunities for the development of SIE are also discussed. By reviewing the state-of-the-art research progress, we hope to provide insights into the development of stable and efficient SIE systems and the promotion of their practical applications, as well as the exploitation of other potential applications.