Applications of bio-derived/bio-inspired materials in the field of interfacial solar steam generation
Yang Geng, Kai Jiao, Xu Liu, Peijin Ying, Omololu Odunmbaku, Yaoxin Zhang, Swee Ching Tan, Ling Li, Wei Zhang, Meng Li
Abstract
Interfacial solar steam generation (ISSG) system has attracted extensive attention as a sustainable desalination technology because of its cost efficiency and zero fossil-energy consumption. Aiming at optimizing the desalination properties, materials and system design have been the current research focus. Recently, many novel bio-derived/bio-inspired design strategies were proposed owing to their highly efficient structures inherited from nature, which were fine-tuned over eons of evolution, as well as their low cost and ease of treatment. In this review, we are going to systematically report recent progress of various bio-derived/bio-inspired strategies in terms of optical design, wetting, thermal management, and overall system design, presenting an overview of the current challenges of bio-inspired materials in ISSG system and other application fields. This article is intended to provide a comprehensive review of recent developments about bio-derived/bio-inspired materials in ISSG system and conclude with suggestions regarding further research directions for performance enhancement through design of bio-derived/bio-inspired materials.