Dynamic Regulation of Hydrogen Bonding Networks and Solvation Structures for Synergistic Solar-Thermal Desalination of Seawater and Catalytic Degradation of Organic Pollutants

Abstract

Highlights A flow-bed water purification system with an asymmetric solar-thermal and catalytic membrane is designed for synergistic solar-thermal desalination of seawater/brine and catalytic degradation of organic pollutants. The hydrogen bonding networks can be regulated by the abundant surface –OH groups and the in situ generated ions and radicals during the degradation process for promoting solar-driven steam generation. The de-solvation of solvated Na+ and subsequent nucleation/growth of NaCl are effectively inhibited by SO4 2−/HSO5 − ions.

Keywords

• Solar steam generation
• Seawater desalination
• Catalytic degradation
• Bacterial cellulose
• Cobalt hydroxycarbonate nanorods