Avant‐Garde Solar–Thermal Nanostructures: Nascent Strategy into Effective Photothermal Desalination. Issue 8 (22nd May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Selvam, Abhyavartin; Jain, Geetika; Chaudhuri, Rajib Ghosh; Mandal, Mrinal Kanti; Chakrabarti, Sandip
• Is Part Of: Solar RRL. Volume 6:Issue 8(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-05-22
• Subjects: Janus nanoarchitecture -- nanomembrane -- photothermal desalination -- photothermal interfacial evaporation -- reticular materials -- salt rejection -- solar nanoabsorber; Solar energy -- Periodicals; Photovoltaic power generation -- Periodicals; Solar energy -- Research -- Periodicals; Photovoltaic power generation -- Research -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 333.7923
• DOI: 10.1002/solr.202200321
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2367-198X

Abstract

Abstract : Photothermal interfacial evaporation (PTIE) draws the attention of researchers owing to its eco‐friendly approach of obtaining purified potable water from unusable seawater. The salience behind this technology ensures an indispensable commodity highly accessible via implementation of localized heating principles to vaporize seawater at water/air interface, instead of excessive energy consuming bulk‐water evaporating desalination systems. The significance of any technology depends on its component, and photothermal desalination technology lies on its material. In this review, focus on ultramodern nanomembranes, Janus nanoarchitectures, and reticular materials as promising solar–thermal nanostructures is highlighted. This report aims to inspire novel advancements in nanomaterials for photothermal desalination by providing cognizance into the mechanisms of photothermal conversion and principles of capillary action to construct innovative water pathway to continuously pump water with excellent salt‐rejecting feature, thereby enhancing PTIE performance. With desalination as the focus, insights into vapor condensation for the collection of desalinated water are discussed. Furthermore, reports on innovative solar‐driven water purification projects undertaken by different countries to be in action in the near future are incorporated. Eventually, this review sheds light on some practical outlook toward the optimization of judicious nanomaterials for a sustainable tomorrow. Abstract : The exhaustion of clean water is a rising concern in terms of water scarcity and the water–energy nexus where photothermal desalination could solve the predicament. This review provides cognizance on solar‐to‐thermal conduction mechanisms, as well as water‐pumping and salt‐rejection, which is explained through capillary action. New‐generation nanostructures such as nanomembrane, Janus nanoarchitecture, and reticular materials could enable water purification.