Zebra skin-inspired solar steam generation for efficient evaporation and simultaneous electricity generation

This study presents the development of an integrated, solar-driven water/electricity generation system with a 3D zebra skin-patterned photothermal structure. A polypyrrole-coated cellulose membrane is folded into a 3D zigzag shape, with slits created along the crests of the folds. This structure increases the effective surface area and light absorption while also promoting temperature-induced convection, removing accumulated vapors from the evaporating surface. These effects improve water evaporation and electricity generation when the device is placed on a solar cell. Different solid-to-blank area (S-B) ratios are fabricated to investigate the impact of the slit area on evaporation rate and electricity generation. The patterned device with slits exhibits higher vapor output and evaporation rates than that without slits for the device of optimal S-B ratio 8:2. The electricity was simultaneously generated from the solar cell beneath the device. This device exhibits a stable open-circuit voltage of 2.05 V and a short-circuit current of 22.5 mA for the S-B ratio of 8:2. This integrated 3D system provides a sustainable solution for simultaneous desalination and electricity generation, with promising applications in off-grid and resource-limited regions.