MXene-PVA-TiO2-based photothermal-catalytic membrane with high structural stability for efficient desalination and photodegradation

•A synergetic photothermal-photocatalytic membrane distillation system was achieved.•MXene served as photothermal material and efficient co-catalyst.•MXene-PVA-TiO2@PVDF membrane showed a high-water flux (1.23 kg/m2h).•MXene-PVA-TiO2@PVDF membrane showed photodegradation efficiency (95% removal of MB).•The MXene-PVA-TiO2@PVDF membrane showed enhanced stability under harsh conditions.