Group VIII (Fe, Co, and Ni) based water evaporators for solar driven interfacial water evaporation: Performance optimization, applications and recent advances

Abstract

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) is a promising technology for sustainable and efficient production of clean water, addressing the pressing issue of freshwater scarcity facing humanity. Given the high level of concern regarding this matter, it is crucial to continuously summarize the research achievements of predecessors to further advance SDIE technology. This review first discusses the key role of solar absorbers containing Group VIII elements, including Fe, Co, and Ni, in SDIE. Second, it explores strategies to improve SDIE performance, such as increasing light absorption, regulating water transport channels, implementing effective thermal management, and reducing the enthalpy of water evaporation. These strategies can effectively optimize the performance of the evaporator and improve energy utilization efficiency. Further, this review details the specific applications of SDIE technology in areas such as seawater desalination, wastewater treatment, and energy reuse. We aim to provide insights for developing stable and efficient SDIE systems, promoting their practical applications, and developing other potential applications.