MXene-Loaded Quasi-3D Hydrogel/Feather Fabric Composite Evaporator with Hierarchical Regulation for Efficient Solar-Driven Interfacial Evaporation

This study reports a hierarchically structured quasi-three-dimensional (quasi-3D) hydrogel/feather fabric composite evaporator, with MXene integrated as the photothermal material, fabricated via an in situ freeze–thaw and mechanical interlocking strategy. Benefiting from the rational quasi-3D structural design, the evaporator effectively retains the intrinsic facile weaving and assembly advantages of textile substrates, while addressing the poor mechanical stability and disordered water transport channels inherent to conventional hydrogels. The synergistic coupling between the low-evaporation-enthalpy hydrogel network and vertically oriented feather yarns expands the channels for light reflection and absorption, thereby synergistically enhancing light harvesting, thermal regulation, water transport, and salt rejection. The as-prepared evaporator exhibits a light absorption efficiency of 97.6% and an evaporation rate of 2.13 kg m−2 h−1 under 1 sun illumination, while sustaining stable performance over 15 consecutive days of outdoor operation. The incorporation of a foam support layer further facilitates effective heat localization and self-flotation, effectively mitigating thermal losses. This work demonstrates an efficient, flexible, and scalable solar evaporator with great potential for sustainable freshwater production.