Natural and Bio‐Inspired Structural Materials for High‐Performance Solar‐Driven Interfacial Evaporation

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Authors: Yafang Li, Shengjie Bi, Xing Liu, Yongchao Duo, Xiaoming Qian, Xin Jin, Wenyu Wang
Cited by: 4
References: 156

Abstract

ABSTRACT Solar‐driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) has emerged as a promising strategy to alleviate the global freshwater crisis owing to its high efficiency, low energy demand, and environmental compatibility. Natural and bio‐inspired materials offer unique structural and functional advantages in this context, enabling enhanced solar absorption, efficient water transport, localized thermal management, and effective salt resistance. Despite these advances, challenges such as limited material durability, incomplete structural integration, and inefficient vapor condensation continue to restrict long‐term stability and large‐scale deployment. Looking forward, progress in multifunctional material systems, rational structural design, and integrated water collection strategies inspired by biological prototypes will be essential. This review provides a comprehensive and forward‐looking perspective on advancing SDIE by coupling biological inspiration with functional engineering, highlighting pathways toward multifunctional, integrated, and sustainable solar evaporators.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Solar-Powered Water Purification Methods Surface Modification and Superhydrophobicity Membrane Separation Technologies

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Sustainable Systems
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
10
Issue
1
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN