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image of Solar Powered Water Distillation and Disinfection as a Step Towards the Green Energy Challenge

Abstract

Introduction

Access to clean drinking water remains a critical challenge in developing and underdeveloped regions, contributing to widespread waterborne diseases. Solar-powered water purification offers an eco-friendly and sustainable solution to address this issue.

Methods

A compact solar-powered water distillation and disinfection system was developed using physical filtration and solar thermal processes. The system integrates a compact filter with a solar flat-plate collector and condenser to purify contaminated water through vaporization and condensation. Performance parameters such as water temperature, output yield, and purification efficiency were evaluated under varied environmental conditions.

Results

The system produced 15 liters of purified water and 18 mL of vapor within 260 minutes. The maximum output temperature reached 50°C. The theoretical yield was 3.0 liters, while the actual yield was 2.0 liters, resulting in a distillation efficiency of 66.67%. The system demonstrated 18.30% efficiency on sunny days and 18.25% on cloudy days.

Discussion

The experimental setup confirms the system's viability for producing potable water, particularly in off-grid or low-resource settings. While efficiency was slightly reduced under cloud cover, the performance remained consistent. The integration of filtration and solar distillation proved effective in removing biological contaminants.

Conclusion

The proposed solar-powered distillation unit is a promising sustainable technology for clean water access. With further optimization and integration of energy storage systems, it can support green energy initiatives and address water scarcity in rural and remote areas.

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2025-04-30
2025-11-08

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Solar Powered Water Distillation and Disinfection as a Step Towards the Green Energy Challenge
Bentham Science Publishers ; https://doi.org/10.2174/0126661454376410250416132043
/content/journals/cms/10.2174/0126661454376410250416132043
/content/journals/cms/10.2174/0126661454376410250416132043
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keywords: Solar energy ; water filtration ; waste water ; portable filters ; sustainable development ; distillation

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