A Self‐Cleaning Solar Evaporator Based on MXene/Aramid Nanofiber Aerogels for Efficient Water Desalination

ABSTRACT

Due to its high energy conversion efficiency and broad accessibility to solar energy, interfacial solar steam generation presents a promising, and cost‐effective solution for desalination of saline water. However, salt accumulation on evaporator surfaces remains a major challenge, especially in the case of high‐salinity environments as the blockage it creates significantly hinders the efficiency as well as continuity of the evaporation process. Salt accumulation also significantly degrades the evaporator's surface over time, reducing its performance and efficiency. Researchers have explored various strategies, including surface modifications, hierarchical structural designs, and anti‐scaling coatings on evaporators. Despite promising results, achieving an optimal balance between maximum evaporation rates and energy efficiency remains a complex and ongoing challenge in this field of research. This study introduces tailor‐designed cylindrical MXene/aramid nanofiber aerogels as self‐cleaning solar evaporators that tolerate high salinity conditions and achieve evaporation rates of up to ∼2.26 kg m ⁻² h ⁻¹ at ∼80% efficiency. This self‐rotating photothermal evaporator exhibits periodic self‐regeneration rotation triggered by accumulated salt crystals to maintain its efficiency and performance. These findings represent a substantial advancement in solar thermal desalination technology for real‐world applications and provide a sustainable solution for efficient water purification, particularly in high‐salinity environments.