Solar desalination is a process that uses solar energy to convert saltwater into fresh water. Solar desalination is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for water scarcity in coastal regions. The most commonly used methods are direct (thermal) and indirect (photovoltaic). This can be done through various techniques, such as:
- Solar Still: It is a simple low-cost method that uses solar heat to evaporate seawater and collect pure water-vapour.
- Multi-Stage Flash Distillation: This method uses a series of flash evaporation and condensation steps to separate salt from seawater.
- Reverse Osmosis: This method uses a semi-permeable membrane to filter out salt and other minerals from seawater. Solar energy can be used to power the pumps that drive this process.
- Photovoltaic-Thermal (PV-T) Desalination: This method uses a combination of solar photovoltaic panels and thermal energy to power desalination process.
The salt water is heated by the Sun in the desalination unit, thereby converting water to water-vapour. This water-vapour then rises to the top of the unit and condenses back to liquid (fresh water) on the inside lid, which is collected in separate container.
The process is directly proportional to surface area exposed to the sunlight. On an average approximately 2 to 3 Litres of frershwater is produced on daily basis per sq. metre of area. This method indeed makes brackish water fit for human consumption, industrial application, irrigation and various other purposes. Employing solar energy (renewable source of energy) helps to eliminate greenhouse gas emission from burning of fossil fuels for power generation, thereby reducing operational cost to a greater extent.
Solar desalination harnesses the power of the sun to address water scarcity in coastal regions, presenting an eco-friendly and economically viable solution. The two primary methods, direct (thermal) and indirect (photovoltaic), offer diverse techniques for converting saltwater into fresh water.
- Solar Still:
- A cost-effective method utilizing solar heat to evaporate seawater, collecting pure water vapor.
- Multi-Stage Flash Distillation:
- Involves a series of flash evaporation and condensation steps to separate salt from seawater.
- Reverse Osmosis:
- Utilizes a semi-permeable membrane to filter out salt, powered by solar energy-driven pumps.
- Photovoltaic-Thermal (PV-T) Desalination:
- Combines solar photovoltaic panels and thermal energy to drive the desalination process.
In the solar desalination unit, saltwater is heated by the sun, transforming it into water vapor. This vapor rises, condenses on the inside lid, and is collected as fresh water. The efficiency is directly linked to the surface area exposed to sunlight, generating approximately 2 to 3 liters of fresh water per square meter daily. This method not only renders brackish water suitable for various purposes but also eliminates greenhouse gas emissions associated with fossil fuel power generation, thereby reducing operational costs significantly. Solar desalination emerges as a sustainable and impactful solution for water scarcity challenges, promoting environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.
In essence, solar desalination not only addresses immediate water scarcity concerns but also aligns with broader sustainability goals, embodying a harmonious integration of technological innovation and environmental responsibility. As the world grapples with growing water challenges, solar desalination emerges as a beacon of hope, ushering in a more sustainable and resilient water future.
