Storage and Recycling of Interfacial Solar Steam Enthalpy

In this work, it is shown that by storing and recycling steam enthalpy derived from the solar steam process, we can enable simultaneous generation of clean water and electricity. Energy-transfer efficiency of solar to steam can reach 72.2% with extra electricity power (with 1.23% efficiency) generated simultaneously. With advanced thermal management to further elevate the working temperature and exciting progress in the fields of thermoelectrics and desalination, it is expected that the performance of this system can be further improved. This approach with scalable materials and processes, high energy-transfer efficiency, and integrated storage capability will provide an attractive avenue to produce electricity and clean water in an individualized manner, particularly desirable in various off-grid areas.