Multifunctional MOFs enable efficient cooling and desalination with low-grade thermal energy

As a result of the extended and excessive utilization of fossil fuels, substantial amounts of greenhouse gases have been emitted into the atmosphere due to human activities, resulting in a progressively severe global climate change. To tackle this issue, numerous scholars have committed themselves to the advancement of renewable energy technologies. Among these technologies, adsorption technology has gained noteworthy attention owing to its adaptability and drivability. Through the examination of various aspects such as co-focusing microstructures, adsorption efficiency, adsorption cooling capabilities, and the potential for seawater desalination, valuable conclusions have been drawn. Research findings suggest that a specific adsorbent material called HKUST-1 (Cu) excels in both adsorption cooling performance and seawater desalination capacity. When the adsorption potential for HKUST-1(Cu) is 50 kJ/kg, its desalination capacity can achieve 1.14 kg/kg. At an adsorption temperature of 25°C and a relative pressure of approximately 0.95, its adsorption cooling capacity can attain 2464.1 kJ/kg. Another adsorbent material, MIL-101 (Al)-NH2, exhibits optimal performance in adsorption cooling. Under identical conditions, its cooling capacity is 1510.8 kJ/kg, with a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of approximately 0.72. These research outcomes strongly support the application of adsorption technology, particularly in realizing adsorption cooling and seawater desalination powered by renewable energy sources.