Rational Design of a High Performance and Robust Solar Evaporator via 3D‐Printing Technology

• DOI: 10.1002/adma.202102649
• Publication Date: 2021-08-05T06:41:35Z
• Authors: Sourav Chaule; Jongha Hwang; Seong‐Ji Ha; Jihun Kang; Jong‐Chul Yoon; Ji‐Hyun Jang
• Keywords: Polyvinylpyrrolidone

Abstract Utilizing the broad‐band solar spectrum for sea water desalination is a promising method that can provide fresh without sophisticated infrastructures. However, solar‐to‐vapour efficiency has been limited due to lack of proper design evaporator deal with either large amount heat loss or salt accumulation. Here, these issues are addressed via two cost‐effective approaches: I) rational concave shaped supporter by 3D‐printing promote light harvesting capacity multiple reflections on surface; II) use double layered photoabsorber composed hydrophilic bottom layer polydopamine (PDA) coated glass fiber (GF/C) and hydrophobic upper carbonized poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVA/PVP) hydrogel supporter, which provides competitive benefit preventing deposition while quickly pumping water. The 3D‐printed efficiently utilize energy (99%) an evaporation rate 1.60 kg m –2 h –1 89% under 1 sun irradiation. underlying reason high obtained supported transfer mechanism. could cheap drinking in remote areas, maintaining stable performance long term.