Biomass-Based Antibacterial Hybrid Engineering Hydrogel for Efficient Solar Steam Generation

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Interfacial solar steam generation offers a sustainable solution for freshwater scarcity.
• Existing solar evaporators face challenges with low evaporation rates and efficiency.
• Biomass-based materials present an eco-friendly alternative for energy applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a high-efficiency biomass-based hybrid hydrogel evaporator for solar steam generation.
• To enhance photothermal conversion and reduce heat loss for improved evaporation performance.
• To evaluate the hydrogel's antibacterial properties for safe drinking water production.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a chitosan and lignosulfonate sodium hybrid hydrogel (CLC) incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNT).
• Characterization of the hydrogel's structure, thermal conductivity, and photothermal properties.
• Testing of solar steam generation performance under one sun illumination, including evaporation rate and energy efficiency.
• Assessment of antibacterial activity against common waterborne pathogens.

Main Results:

• The CLC hydrogel exhibited a high evaporation rate of 2.48 kg m⁻² h⁻¹ and 90% energy efficiency.
• Reduced water evaporation enthalpy due to hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions between hydrogel components and water.
• Incorporation of lignosulfonate sodium lowered thermal conductivity, mitigating heat loss.
• Demonstrated excellent antibacterial properties with 98.4% efficacy, ensuring water safety.

Conclusions:

• The developed CLC hydrogel is a highly efficient and eco-friendly evaporator for solar steam generation.
• Its unique composition enhances photothermal management and reduces energy requirements for evaporation.
• The hydrogel's antibacterial properties and purification capabilities make it suitable for long-term seawater desalination and producing potable water.