Title

Design, Construction and Evaluation of a Multi Layered Solar Distillation Prototype

Author(s) Information

Arlen A. Flanagan, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences

Department - Author 1

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

Date

6-2009

Primary Advisor

Ilhami Yildiz; College of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences; BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

Abstract/Summary

Water is arguably the most important resource to any individual; especially in areas of deserts and open oceans where drinkable water suppliers are scarce. The prototype Solar Desalination Unit allows normally undrinkable water to be distilled into a potable source with minimal inputs. The unit’s main power source is focused sunlight to thermally heat water inducing evaporation which is then condensed and collected. While solar desalination has been around for many years, lately more complex designs have been investigated in order to increase yields and efficiency. This paper focuses on the design, construction and testing of a Multi-Plate Solar Desalination Unit. The layered plates allow for multiple evaporation-condensation cycles with the same energy input thus increasing efficiency.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/braesp/1