Solar steam generation using hybrid nanomaterials to address global environmental pollution and water shortage crisis

Abstract

Global water pollution and scarcity issues have harmed people's ability to live a healthy lifestyle in a variety of ways. Groundwater resources are depleting at an alarming rate, necessitating immediate action to solve the issue of water scarcity. Conventional methods of solar steam generation (SSG), such as concentrated solar power, suspended nanofluid system, and direct solar steam generation, are all very energy intensive, produce subpar water yields, have low solar conversion efficiencies, and are prohibitively expensive for a large-scale production. Interfacial SSG is a renowned technology in the field of energy harvesting and green technologies. It aims to alleviate energy shortages and water pollution, as well as increase the pace of desalination of salt water and the production of fresh water, while reducing costs. In a solar-powered steam generation system, the introduction of hybrid nanomaterials, with low thermal conductivity and a super-hydrophilic nature, allows for optimal absorption of bandwidth, boosts localized heating, which lowers heat loss and improves photothermal conversion efficiency. This study focuses on recent developments in the SSG using hybrid nanomaterials to address global water pollution and shortage. It draws attention to the most recent innovations as well as critical gaps in the field. This review contributes to the development of unique designs and cutting-edge hybrid nanomaterials, which in turn reduce costs and improve performance.