rGO-based covalent organic framework hydrogel for synergistically enhance uranium capture capacity through photothermal desalination

Abstract Capturing of uranium from the natural seawater is considered to be one of the most promising methods to meet the current demand for nuclear energy. Herein, we prepared a reduced graphene oxide-based (rGO-based) covalent organic framework hydrogel (KTG) with three-dimensional porous structure as a platform for enhancing uranium capture capacity through photothermal desalination. Under light irradiation, the KTG produces a local heat that can be used to generate steam while promoting the rapid diffusion of uranium inside the hydrogel 3D network, thereby increasing the adsorption efficiency and capacity of uranium. KTG can achieve exceptional uranium capture capacity (521.6 mg g−1) under one sun irradiation, which is 42.4% higher than that under dark conditions. In addition, excellent photocatalytic activity and mechanical properties make KTG possess high anti-biofouling activity, good reusability, and achieving continuous uranium capture and solar distillation.