Study on a novel inclined solar water distillation system using thermoelectric module for condensation

Abstract

Energy efficiency and energy conservation are critical issues today, and the use of solar energy is widely recognized as a key solution for achieving energy independence and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. In this study, a water treatment system was installed, and numerous experiments were conducted to improve energy efficiency and investigate the impact of various parameters on water distillation rates. The primary focus of this study was to increase the rate of distillation by enhancing the surface area for rapid evaporation through the use of sponge pieces, and integrating the system with a novel condensation part equipped with a mechanism that sprays water on the external heat exchanger of the thermoelectric module to increase the condensation rate. The study also examined the effects of black color on solar energy absorption, the impact of indoor fan operation on water vapor distribution, the role of insulation in reducing thermal energy losses, and the intensity of solar radiation. The results revealed that the use of sponge pieces and a thermoelectric cooler significantly increased the rate of water distillation, which was about 100.5%. Moreover, the effect of air fans on the distillation rate was observed, which increased the distillation by more than 51.1%. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the design and optimization of solar-powered water treatment systems, highlighting the importance of energy efficiency and the potential of renewable energy sources in meeting energy needs while reducing impact on the environment.