Performance analysis of solar still with different energy-absorbing materials

Abstract

ABSTRACTSolar still is a simple device which can convert available waste or brackish water into potable fresh water by utilising solar energy. In the present research work, an attempt has been made to store excess heat energy in solar stills during the daytime for the continuation of the process at late evening and night hours for increment distillate output. To investigate the effect of energy storage materials on the productivity under the same climatic conditions, three same-size single-basin single-slope solar stills with an area of 1 m2 made of fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) sheet were tested with 0.04 m layer of water level to investigate effects on solar still. Different energy storage materials like marble pieces and sandstones were used for easy availability and lower price. It has been found that sand stones are more productive compared with marble pieces and without materials inside solar still.