3D structural-engineering evaporator integrating light-space-heat omnibearing regulation

(a) Schematic illustration of the development process of SVG, from 2D SSG, traditional 3D SSG and to C-3D SSG. (b) Schematic illustration of C-3D SSG with high evaporation rate and light absorbtion in the solar-steam generation process. • Enhanced light absorption within the 3D space is achieved through the intricate ridge-like topography of MoS 2 /C-PVA composite hydrogels. • A 3D solar steam generator has been constructed, featuring a cup-like structural design (C-3D SSG) that enhances its water evaporation ability. • Ligh-space-heat manipulation was executed by C-3D SSG, heralding a pioneering enhancement in water evaporation. Interfacial solar evaporators designed with sophisticated 3D structure hold the potentiality for ameliorating the evaporation rate through expanding the surface area for evaporation, facilitating water movement and bolstering air convection. However, the most current 3D evaporators are stalemated of constrained light absorption, circumscribed evaporative surface or thermal dissipation which collectively result in the curtailment of evaporation rate escalation. In this work, an omnibearing convergence of new cup-like 3D solar steam generator (C-3D SSG) based on MoS 2 /C and PVA materials with integrated coordination of light-space-heat is constructed. The innovative cup-like structural design of C-3D SSG successfully embodies the convergence of light, space and heat management through the strategic integration of photothermal materials (PTM), substrate materials and evaporative elements across multiple scales, demonstrating a compelling advancement in light absorption, copious heat diffusion space and prodigious energy-harvesting zone and water evaporation rate enhancement. The omnibearing regulation attains a premium evaporation rate of 3.89 kg m -2 h −1 under 1 Sun illumination with recycle energy of 1.71 W. By incorporating the C-3D SSG for practical application, it can function as an evaporator within a cup, thereby enhancing its practical utility. And C-3D SSG with panoramic convergence provides a broad range of research avenues and methodologies for addressing the water crisis and the development of ISSG technology.