Experimental Measurement and Theoretical Prediction of the Temperatures and the Productivity of a Continuous Solar Desalination Unit with PCM

Abstract: In this work, an analytical model that predicts the temperature and the productivity of a continuous solar still with Phase Change Material (PCM) is introduced. The developed model is verified both experimentally and numerically, by comparing the model results to those obtained from the numerical solution of the energy equations governing the system components. The model verification showed an excellent agreement between the model and the experimental results as well as the numerical solution. The model is also used to predict the effect of several parameters such as feed water flow rate and PCM/water ratio (represented by R_r) on the system’s temperature and performance. It was found that the system’s maximum temperature is inversely proportional to the feed water flow rate and R_r. It was also found that increasing the feed water flow rate increases the PCM melting time, but decreases the PCM solidification time. However, the PCM melting and solidification times are directly proportional to the value of R_r. The experimental results showed that the total amount of fresh water produced is proportional to the value of R_r. Such unit can serve two functions: producing fresh water and provide hot water for longer hours.