Self-assembled Cu doped NiO loaded reduced graphene oxide: Multifunctional photothermal framework for interfacial water evaporation, disinfection and power generation

Development of self-assembled multifunctional photothermal materials is considered as reconciliation between solar energy harvesting and sustainable energy and environmental applications. Herein, we report strategically designed self-assembled Cu-doped-NiO nanoparticles loaded-rGO (rGO-Cu-NiO) framework. The self-assembly exhibited synergistic photothermal conversion, floatable porous structure for efficient capillary action enabling water transmission and quick steam escape pathways. The optimized rGO-Cu-NiO framework achieved interfacial water evaporation rate of 1.47 kgm−2h−1 with 92% conversion efficiency under 1Sun illumination. Maximum surface temperature of the framework displays 74 °C under 2Sun irradiation, making it highly feasible to be implemented as solar water purifier. Cell viability examination indicated the superior antimicrobial properties, making it a promising candidate for photothermal therapy application. Moreover, the self-assembled rGO-Cu-NiO framework integrated with the commercial thermoelectric module shows outstanding photothermal conversion efficiency to envisage its ability towards electrical power generation. Impressively, the amalgamation of the framework with the Bi2Te3 based commercial thermoelectric module proficiently reinforce the performance of the thermoelectric generator by offering an enhanced power output of 3.91 mW and appreciably high power density of 0.311 mW/cm2. Overall, the excellent stability, no photo-leaching, effectiveness to produce pure water from seawater, antimicrobial properties, recyclability, make rGO-Cu-NiO a perfect epitome of sustainable water treatment and power generation application.