MXene Membrane as Multifunctional Interface for Vapor Splitting via Photothermal-Catalytic Membrane Distillation.
basic_science · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 41243786.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1002/adma.202513926 and PMC identifier 12862698.
- Licence recorded as CC BY-NC-ND.
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Abstract
Advancements in solar-driven processes are fundamentally transforming the production of freshwater and energy into a more sustainable manner. Realizing such potential requires developing highly efficient solar responsive materials and advanced solar systems. Here, an MXene-based membrane is reported as a multifunctional interface capable of simultaneously producing freshwater and hydrogen through a strategically designed photothermal-catalytic sweeping gas membrane distillation (PTC-SGMD) system. By leveraging membrane interface engineering, the innovative design integrates solar evaporation, vapor transportation, and vapor splitting within a single membrane. Unlike conventional liquid-solid systems, this liquid-solid-gas configuration overcomes photocatalyst leaching, interfacial heat loss, and inefficient mass transfer. The multifunctional membrane exhibits enhanced solar absorption and optimal permeability, enabling the MXene-photocatalyst composite to achieve efficient photocatalytic vapor splitting. Remarkably, the optimized SrTiO<sub>3</sub>/MX@PVDF membrane achieves a simultaneous water flux of 2.37 kg m<sup>-2</sup>h<sup>-1</sup> and hydrogen production of 947.8 µmol m<sup>-2</sup>h<sup>-1</sup> under 1 sun irradiation. The PTC-SGMD system demonstrates total solar efficiency of 92.305% with outstanding stability over 72 h of continuous operation. This innovative approach offers a scalable solution to global water scarcity and energy challenges.