Arc-melting synthesis of Li-doped λ-Ti3O5 for efficient solar-driven interfacial evaporation

doi:10.1016/j.jmst.2025.12.053

Abstract

Abstract: The Magnéli-phase λ-Ti₃O₅, characterized by its unique flat-band electronic structure, is a promising photothermal conversion material for solar-driven interfacial evaporation. However, its intrinsic thermodynamic instability at ambient temperature severely constrains large-scale practical application. To overcome this challenge, we developed a scalable synthesis strategy for stabilizing λ-Ti₃O₅ via arc-melting followed by high-energy ball milling, coupled with Lithium (Li) doping. Structural and surface analyses confirm that Li incorporation effectively stabilizes the λ-phase. Morphological studies reveal particle refinement (~1-2 µm) with increased surface roughness and oxygen vacancies, further enhancing solar absorption with overall reflectivity < 6% in the range of 250-2500 nm. Incorporating 10 wt. % of Li_0.25Ti_2.75O₅ particles into a Polyvinyl alcohol/Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVA/PVP) porous hydrogel evaporator yielded an evaporation rate of 5.22 kg m^-2 h^-1 under one sun irradiation. Remarkably, the evaporator demonstrated excellent resistance to salt crystallization, maintaining stable performance during a 24-h continuous operation in 3.5 wt. % saline water. This work not only provides a practical and scalable approach for stabilizing λ-Ti₃O₅ but also offers valuable insights into the development of efficient, durable photothermal materials for solar desalination technologies.

Key words: Magnéli phase, Photothermal conversion, Λ-Ti₃O₅, Solar-driven interfacial evaporation, Arc-melting

Wanqi Chen, Ruolan Tang, Bo Yang, Wenzhao Sun, Bo Zhang, Peize Lv, Banghe Lv, Haile Yan, Zongbin Li, Song Li, Liang Zuo. Arc-melting synthesis of Li-doped λ-Ti₃O₅ for efficient solar-driven interfacial evaporation[J]. J. Mater. Sci. Technol., 2026, 269: 78-92.

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Arc-melting synthesis of Li-doped λ-Ti₃O₅ for efficient solar-driven interfacial evaporation

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