Can the high throughput yield of solar thermal interfacial evaporation systems be beyond theoretical efficiency?

Abstract

Solar steam generation (SSG) offers a sustainable energy source for generating fresh water worldwide as the world grapples with water scarcity. Collective global efforts have spurred significant developments, leading to solar-to-steam conversion efficiencies surpassing theoretical limits over the last decade. However, the condensate yield remains suboptimal, and thermal losses are under ideal conditions, necessitating a critical evaluation of the practical applicability and scalability of this technology. This comprehensive study conducts an in-depth review of recent advancements in real-time solar steam generation, presenting strategies for high throughput yield of condensate through targeted modifications to core components, achieving higher yields with minimum complexity. The strategies that unlock the maximum possible output from SSG technology are first discussed comprehensively with current limitations and possible solutions. Subsequently, we analyze the environmental factors that significantly boost or drop the theoretical efficiency without being noticed in calculations. We further elucidate potential applications and underlying challenges while discussing contemporary methods to overcome these hurdles. This study ultimately aims to explore the possibility of surpassing theoretical efficiency limits in SSG systems, achieving high-throughput yields that would greatly benefit researchers in developing scalable, next-generation evaporators with unprecedented efficiency.