Facile fabrication of solar distillation devices for sewage treatment and purification

Potable water shortage and environmental pollution are two major challenges in terms of the development of human society. Inspired by plant transpiration in nature, 3 D photothermal devices are assembled, mainly including: a floating layer composed of hydrophobic Co 3 O 4 and compound photocatalyst, a hydrophilic layer and a Co 3 O 4 photothermal conversion layer. Non-wetting fabrics not only realizes the photothermal device floating on the water surface, but also obtains the ability of removing the organic solvent and water-soluble pollutants. The fabric surface remained non-wettable, proving its mechanical and temperature stability after blade scraping, surface adhesion, sandpaper grinding and a treatment at 300 °C. The photoresponse ability and degradation of pollutants are improved by forming a heterojunction between composite catalyst, and the O 2 – is verified as the main active species. A vapor production rate of 2.34 kg•m −2 •h −1 under 2 sun illumination is achieved through the 3 D photothermal device. The modular design provides guidance for the flexible application of 3 D photothermal devices.