A V-shaped CNT-decorated LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 photothermal fabric for high-efficiency solar steam generation and desalination

Abstract

Addressing global water scarcity requires sustainable and efficient water purification technologies. Solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) has emerged as a promising and sustainable technology that utilizes abundant solar energy. However, its efficiency is frequently constrained by inadequate photothermal materials, heat loss, salt accumulation, and an inability to remove soluble contaminants. Herein, we develop a novel photothermal V-shaped photonic harvester by incorporating LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCAL) decorated with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (NCAL@CNTs) nanocomposites onto a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. The NCAL nanoparticles ensure broadband solar absorption in the near-infrared region, while the CNT network offers remarkable thermal conductivity, accelerates vapor diffusion, and enhances mechanical integrity. Consequently, this synergistic integration yields an exceptionally efficient solar evaporation system. Under 1 sun illumination (1 kW m−2), the optimized NCAL@CNTs fabric demonstrates an outstanding evaporation rate of 2.30 kg m−2 h−1 with a corresponding solar-thermal efficiency of 91.4%. Additionally, the fabric shows excellent multifunctional purification capabilities and effectively desalinates simulated seawater, achieving ion-rejection rates exceeding 99.9%. This work establishes scalable and multifunctional solar evaporation for practical freshwater production. Keywords Solar steam generation, NCAL@CNTs, V-shaped evaporator, Desalination, Thermal management