Multiscale Heat and Mass Transport Optimization for Solar-Driven Interfacial Evaporation: Opportunities and Challenges for Industrial Applications.

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) offers an energy-friendly water treatment technique for underdeveloped areas due to its clean energy-driven, ease of deployment, and off-grid operation. However, extending SDIE to industrial application is still challenged by slow vapor transfer and low condensation efficiency. Addressing these bottlenecks requires a comprehensive framework that incorporates the optimization of multiscale heat and mass transport from evaporators to overall systems, enhancing the energy conversion efficiency in the real-world. This perspective identifies key factors affecting vapor transport and condensation dynamics within evaporators and evaporation systems. Based on the integration of functional materials and energy harvesting devices, viable routes to achieve rapid heat and mass transfer, vapor-liquid phase change, and improved energy conversion efficiency within the condensing chamber, condensing wall, and enthalpy cycle architecture are discussed. Next, multiple design guidelines for optimizing condensation based on different application scenarios and operating environments are provided, further enhancing the flexibility and reliability of the SDIE. This perspective follows the blueprint of the Sustainable Development Goals and aims to advance the industrial implementation of SDIE and global coverage of safely drinking water.