Rational construction of “all-in-one” metal-organic framework for integrated solar steam generation and advanced oxidation process

Integrating interfacial solar steam generation with advanced oxidation process (AOP) is regarded as a promising strategy for addressing energy and environmental issues. However, developing dual-functional evaporators well-integrated with synergistic photothermal-AOP catalysis properties remains challenging. Herein, we synthesize cobalt-based metal-organic framework (Co-CAT) and prepare dual-functional Co-CAT evaporators. Co-CAT is endowed with “all-in-one” functions, i.e., high specific surface area, effective light absorption, and high catalytic activity. Co-CAT exhibits superior sunlight absorption and photo-to-thermal conversion property. The large specific surface area and abundant micropore of Co-CAT facilitate water permeation and evaporation enthalpy reduction. COMSOL Multiphysics and density functional theory calculation results prove that Co2+ sites in Co-CAT and heat localization promote peroxymonosulfate activation. Consequently, it not only exhibits a high-water evaporation rate of 2.2 kg m−2 h−1, outperforming the-state-of-art evaporators, but also presents the notable tetracycline degradation efficiency (91.1 %). This work proposes an ingenious way to deal with freshwater shortage and water pollution.