Scalable and eco-friendly fabrication of anti-oil-fouling solar interfacial evaporator for efficient water purification

Abstract

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SIE) is a promising avenue for clean water production, but its widespread application is hindered by challenges such as surface water contamination and the corrosive nature of oily wastewater. In this study, we introduce a novel approach to mitigate these issues by developing a cotton fabric coated with carbon black nanoparticles and calcium alginate hydrogel (CCCF). This coating imparts the fabric with remarkable properties, including strong light absorption, superhydrophilicity, and underwater superoleophobicity. These characteristics enable the CCCF-based evaporator to achieve an impressive water evaporation rate of 1.44 kg m⁻² h⁻¹ under one sun, even in the presence of various oil contaminants. Furthermore, the CCCF exhibits outstanding reusability and stability under harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to acidic, alkaline, and saline environments, as well as elevated temperature. These findings highlight the potential of CCCF as a practical and scalable solution for fabricating SIE systems with enhanced efficiency and durability. Our research represents a significant step forward in the development of sustainable water production technologies for diverse environmental conditions.