Solar distillation in forced convection. Simulation and experience

Abstract

Scarcity of water and fossil energies in the canary Islands leads to an interest in a study on solar assisted desalination. A forced convection humidification-dehumidification process is analysed, where air is forced into an evaporation channel while saline water flows along the bottom, so that a fraction will evaporate to be absorbed by air. Two simulation models are developed for the proposed system. Their output in terms of temperature and humidity are discussed. Evaluation of different alternatives of operation is carried out in terms of exergy efficiency as the basic criterion. Simulation results are also compared with data obtained at a pilot plant. Data measured as well as the efficiencies are similar to those obtained for flat solar collectors. © 1993.