Unlocking desalination’s potential: Harnessing MXene composite for sustainable desalination

[Display omitted] •Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPF composite-based scalable innovative solar water purification system is developed.•Facile hydrothermal synthesis of hierarchical Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPF composite.•A high evaporation rate of 4.6 kg m−2h−1 is achieved by Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPFcomposite.•Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPF composite exhibits high chemical stability.•Exhibits outstanding salt tolerance is achieved by Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPFcomposite. Amidst freshwater scarcity, desalination is an effective solution, elevating pure water to a paramount commodity. Researchers actively pursue cost-effective alternatives to traditional desalination methods, with solar steam-based technologies now-a-days. Herein we report the synthesis of hierarchical photothermal absorber consisting of Ti3C2Tx decorated polypropylene fiber (PPF) composite and further used for solar desalination applications. Ensuring system stability amidst temperature fluctuations, pH variations, and mechanical stresses is pivotal for optimal desalination and wastewater treatment performance. Seamless integration of components is imperative to achieve this. Structurally, the Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPF composite evaporator showcases impressive metrics, such as high evaporation rate of 4.63 kg m−2h−1 along with a remarkable solar-evaporation efficiency of 93.48 % when tested under 1 sun illumination. Moreover, the composite absorber exhibits good mechanical stability, exceptional chemical stability even under harsh conditions (such as acid and alkali environments), outstanding salt tolerance and maintained a consistent evaporation rate over extended durations. Also, the absorber achieves good mechanical properties. These findings underscore the Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPF composite evaporator’s potential as a groundbreaking material for solar steam generation, offering high efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Beyond saline water desalination, its salt-preserving attributes and filtration capabilities position it as a promising alternative for wastewater treatment. This study presents an innovative and scalable solar water purification system applicable to a diverse range of water contaminants and manufacture in a cost-effective way.