Abstract
Inspired by transport system in trees, a two-way water and salt transport mechanism is realized in a structurally graded aerogel, enabling simultaneous fast water uptake and salt rejection. The horizontally aligned pore channels near the surface achieve excellent heat localization by maximizing solar absorption and minimizing heat loss. The integrated water, salt, and thermal transports impart an impressive evaporation rate of 1.94 kg m−2 h−1 in a 20 wt% NaCl solution for 8 h without salt accumulation.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 222 |
Journal | Nano-Micro Letters |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2024 |
Keywords
- Composite aerogel
- Graded structure
- Salt rejection
- Solar-powered evaporation
- Thermal insulation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Surfaces, Coatings and Films
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering