Solar‐Driven Gradient Aerogel Composites for Coupled Seawater Desalination, Thermoelectric Power Generation, and Dual‐Mode Camouflage

Abstract To overcome the limitations of traditional energy systems and enhance the energy utilization diversity, a multifunctional gradient aerogel composite system is designed in this study. This system integrates poly(maleic acid ditetradecyl ester‐hexadecyl acrylate) (PMH) as a phase change material, an amino montmorillonite/graphene oxide (N‐MMT/GO) hybrid aerogel (GNA) as a support framework, and a thermochromic surface coating. GNA features a unique hierarchical porous structure, where N‐MMT mitigates GO restacking and lattice defects. PMH exhibits high thermal stability and enthalpy (99.1 J g −1 ) and is stably encapsulated in the GNA matrix with a low leakage rate (0.45%). High‐temperature carbonization yields reduced GO and N‐MMT, forming continuous thermal conduction pathways that enhance phonon and electron transport, thereby improving thermal storage and photothermal conversion efficiency. The resulting composite simultaneously enables four key functions: solar‐driven seawater desalination, thermoelectric power generation, infrared camouflage, and visible‐light camouflage. Solar energy drives efficient thermal energy storage and triggers a dynamic color transition through the thermochromic layer, enabling an adaptive environmental response. This study presents a comprehensive strategy for designing solar‐responsive multifunctional materials with promising applications in seawater desalination, sustainable energy, environmental regulation, and military camouflage.