Enhancement of upper basin distillate output by attachment of vacuum tubes with double-basin solar still

Abstract

Generally, the distillate output of a solar still is low; hence it is not practicable for the solution of drinkable water in the universe today. Here, a new concept is utilized to increase distillate output of a solar still in use, the double-basin solar still integrated with vacuum tubes. In this research paper, an analysis of the top basin of present solar still with different energy absorbing materials like calcium stones, black granite gravel and pebbles for enhanced surface area of water is performed. Numerous experiments have been conducted in climate conditions of Mehsana (23.6000° N, 72.4000° E) Gujarat, from April to September 2013 with a constant depth of 2 cm inside top basin. Six months’ result shows that, the distillate output of basing material with calcium stones found were more when compared with black granite gravel and pebbles.

Keywords:

• Double-basin solar still
• Calcium stones
• Pebbles
• Granite gravel
• Distillate output