Speaker
Description
In this study, we present the development of a biomass hybrid hydrogel (BHH) evaporator, meticulously engineered with a hierarchical porous structure to optimize solar-driven water evaporation and desalination. The hydrogel integrates natural polysaccharides, namely starch and chitosan, with melanin-inspired polydopamine-coated Fe nanoparticles (PDA-Fe NPs), serving as a highly efficient photothermal absorber. The hierarchical porosity of the BHH, characterized by interconnected macropores and densely distributed micropores, plays a pivotal role in its performance. This porous network not only promotes superior light absorption and photothermal conversion but also enhances water transport dynamics. The macropores, aligned and oriented, act as capillary channels for rapid water replenishment, while the micropores increase surface area for efficient evaporation and light trapping. This dual-scale porosity synergistically boosts water mobility and evaporation rates, leveraging the hydrophilic interactions from polysaccharide functional groups. Inspired by the wicking mechanism of kerosene lamps, the evaporator design maximizes the hierarchical porosity's functionality. The cylindrical 3D structure further enhances evaporation by increasing surface exposure, minimizing heat dissipation, and incorporating ambient energy absorption. Under one-sun illumination, the BHH evaporator achieves an evaporation rate of 3.9 kg m⁻² h⁻¹ and an outstanding solar-to-vapor efficiency of 103.2%. Beyond its exceptional evaporation performance, the evaporator exhibits remarkable salt resistance and self-cleaning capabilities. These properties stem from the hydrogel's dynamic porous network, which prevents salt crystallization and supports continuous water supply. The durability and scalability of this design underscore its suitability for long-term seawater desalination. This work highlights the transformative potential of hierarchical porous engineering in biomaterials. By integrating renewable resources and advanced structural design, the BHH hydrogel sets a benchmark for sustainable, high-performance solar evaporators, addressing critical water scarcity challenges on a global scale.
| Country | Morocco |
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