Analytical study of a single slope solar still: experimental evaluation

Abstract

Even though water covers the surface of the Earth in three quarters, many nations face shortages of drinkable water due to rapid global population and industrial growth. Solar power emerges as an efficient solution, particularly in hot climates with water and energy scarcity. This research focuses on a practical solar solution known as a solar still, a basic apparatus designed to convert available salty water into potable water. In this study, a single-slope solar still using acrylic material is experimentally analysed, predicting daily distillate production under varying climatic conditions. Using heat and solar radiation, solar distillation offers a simple, affordable, and small-scale approach to clean water production. The solar still, utilizing acrylic sheets as a basin material, minimizes heat losses and enhances water evaporation rates, making it a promising technology for addressing water scarcity issues. The experimental analysis results revealed a distillate output of 420 ml per 0.49 m² per day.