http://english.cas.cn/newsroom/research-news/202606/t20260610_1161484.shtml
https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adma.73756
Researchers from the CAS Institute of Process Engineering and Shenzhen University have developed a new three-dimensional photothermal structure that greatly improves solar evaporation efficiency.
The new structure tightly integrates polymer chains with hollow multishelled structures (HoMS), yielding a record evaporation rate of 38.14 kg m-2h-1—a figure 8.5 times higher than rates previously reported for two-dimensional membrane systems.
The researchers used Hansen solubility parameter theory to tightly combine polyethylene terephthalate (PET) chains with HoMS. Accelerated seawater aging tests found no detectable particle detachment from the material after 30 days of continuous exposure. In addition, no active free radicals were detected when the material was exposed to light, suggesting potentially good durability and reliability during long-term use.
The researchers further evaluated the technology under real-world conditions using a 0.75-m2 outdoor demonstration device. Operating under natural sunlight, the system produced 20 liters of freshwater per day, with water quality meeting World Health Organization drinking water standards. This output is sufficient to satisfy the basic daily drinking needs of about ten people.
In addition to producing freshwater, the desalinated water was successfully used to irrigate a 5-m2 experimental field. The system supported the full growth cycle of spinach, corn, and Chinese cabbage. These results demonstrate the technology’s potential for agricultural irrigation in water-scarce regions.
The new technology shows promising economic potential. The researchers estimate that after two years of operation, the cost of water produced by this technology would be lower than that of commercial bottled water. If it proves capable of stable long-term performance, the new material may offer a practical solution for sustainable freshwater production in regions facing water shortages.