Thermal-economic analysis of modular solar still under Algerian climatic conditions: effect of collector and condensation chamber area

Abstract

In this paper, a thermal-economic analysis of a modular solar still was investigated. For that, a modular solar still was designed. The collector area and the condensation chamber area effect on the productivity and distilled water cost were examined. Simulations were performed according to meteorological data of Algiers (Algeria) using Liu Jordan method. Results show that the surface area of collector increase increases the evaporated water and distilled water production at the same time. The average annual production passed from 482.35 L for 2 m2 of solar collector to 2083.65 L for 10 m2 of solar collector. On the other side, increasing surface of solar collector decreases the cost of distilled water. The cost of liter of distilled water varies between 0.12 and 0.04$ for 2 and 10 m2 of collector, respectively. Also, when the condensation chamber area increases, the amount of the distillate water produced decreases.