Experimental Investigation of a Novel Design Solar Still Desalination System

Abstract

In this paper, new design solar still with a double wedged glass cover design over a concrete material basin is evaluated for its performance under the passive mode of operation. The performability of the Twin Wedge Solar Still (TWSS) is analyzed in contrast with a Conventional Solar Still (CSS). The TWSS delivered freshwater of 1.3 l/m2,which is twice the yield of the CSS (0.635 l/m2). The daily energy efficiency of TWSS is 33.94%. The economics of this system evaluated for futuristic development. The TWSS delivered clean water at the cost of 0.033 $/l. The payback period was only 11 months for TWSS, whereas it is five years and ten months for CSS. In high-temperature areas, TWSS integrated on the building roof can simultaneously harvest the solar energy to generate water, as well as keep the building cool by preventing heat penetration into the building.