Development and analysis of a floating solar distillation device

Abstract

The aim of this study was to address research gaps in the field of solar distillation through the design, construction, and testing of an inexpensive, innovative and portable, and floating solar distillation device. The developed device was designed to cater to the water requirements of third-world communities and/or communities struck by natural disasters or emergencies. The methodology followed throughout this study was that of empirical research in conjunction with the engineering product design cycle to develop a design, as well as physical prototypes which were used in testing. The knowledge gained throughout this study culminated in a final detailed product design and an associated physical prototype. The final design is transportable, simple to assemble and use. This design requires minimal input from the end-user in its operation due to the innovative implementation of a wicking material. Even though the developed solar distillation unit floats on a relatively cool body of water, it performed better than an onshore equivalent solar still by 5%. The product would cost around EUR 43 (102 EUR m–2), which is significantly less than the cost of similar products currently available on the market at the time of writing.