Multifunctional Phra Phrom-like Graphene-Based Membrane for Environmental Remediation and Resources Regeneration

Water and energy shortages are interdependent major worldwide issues that cannot be disregarded. In this work, graphene and BaTiO₃ are used to synergistically facilitate the self-assembly of the β-phase that is known to induce the piezoelectric properties of the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). This leads to a PVDF/graphene-BaTiO₃ nanocomposite with a unique capability of integrating Phra Phrom-like four functions into one single asymmetric membrane: i) solar evaporation, ii) power generation, iii) piezo-photodegradation, and iv) self-cleaning/monitoring for environmental remediation and resources regeneration. The high heat accumulation capability and piezoelectric performance of the membrane enable it to simultaneously achieve a water production rate of 0.99 kgm⁻²h⁻¹, in compliance with WHO standards, and a maximum power output of 5.73 Wm⁻² in simulated natural environments. Upon subjecting the membranes to environmental cleaning, they not only show a 93% dye degradation rate due to the synergistic effect of piezoelectricity and photocatalysis but also resolve the membrane fouling issue, exhibiting ≈200% resistance change compared to the static state. The successful integration of these four functions into one membrane shows the great potential of this work toward a more sustainable and viable water and energy production approach.