A Ferric Tannate and Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose Composite Aerogel for Efficient Solar Steam Generation

Abstract

Abstract Solar steam generation (SSG) is an extremely promising desalination technology that meets the global demand for clean water. Herein, we report a facile and effective method that utilizes absorbed heat to evaporate limited water while minimize heat loss. The top layer is a hydrophilic photothermal layer that allows for uniform distribution of water on the photothermal layer, whereas the bottom layer is a hydrophobic insulating layer that provides excellent insulation and heat preservation. Water is supplied by dripping from the top to thoroughly avoid heat loss caused by contact between the photothermal layer and water body. We achieve a high evaporation rate of 1.622 kg/m 2 h and energy conversion efficiency of 90.8 % under 1 sun irradiation.