Controlling thermal management for accelerating high-salinity desalination and electricity generation

Efficient thermal management during solar steam generation (SSG) poses a formidable challenge because insufficient heat decelerates desalination rates and excessive heat compromises salt tolerance. Herein, a detached double-layer groove evaporator with separated but synergistic functional zones is fabricated for boosted energy multi-utilization. The separated photothermal conversion and interfacial evaporation are exquisitely designed for multiple radiation harvesting and localized thermal management. The establishment of individual desalination and salt-discharge zones concurrently averts the diminution of the evaporation rate resulting from vaporization suppression and channel blockage. Hence, an accelerated evaporation rate (3.51 kg·m −2 ·h −1 ) and superior salt resistance (over 24 h) are achieved from rational groove construction. Through a well-designed stereoscopic thermal flow, the capture of low-grade heat generates a distinct thermal field gradient, enhancing integrated thermoelectric output (225 mW·m −2 ). The competitive daily cogeneration of fresh water, salt, and electricity during long-term high-salinity desalination demonstrates superior practicality, which can remarkably increase clean water production.