Nb2CTX/graphene aerogels for efficient solar-driven steam generation

The development of high-efficiency photothermal conversion materials for seawater desalination is crucial to mitigating the global freshwater shortage crisis. The present investigation is aimed to prepare three-dimensional cylinder Nb2CTX/graphene aerogels (Nb2CTX/GAs) by a combined hydrothermal and freeze-drying process as a photothermal conversion material for solar-driven steam generation. The broad adsorption spectrum, porous microstructure, and excellent hydrophilicity account for the superior photothermal conversion performance of Nb2CTX/GAs. A high evaporation rate of 1.423 kg·m2h−1 was achieved as well as an exceptional solar steam conversion efficiency of 89.6% under one sun irradiation. Furthermore, Nb2CTX/GAs exhibited excellent cyclic stability of photothermal conversion. This work attempts to reveal the great prospect of Nb2CTX/GAs in seawater desalination applications.