Augmentation of the tubular distiller performance via hot air injection from a parabolic trough collector, nanocoating, and nanofluid

Abstract

Nowadays, due to freshwater scarcity intensifying, researchers are actively seeking to improve solar desalination, a technology with immense potential, but there are still limitations in production capacity. This study investigated the integration of various additives in tubular solar still (TSS) at three configurations. In Case I, a V-corrugated basin and an air parabolic trough collector (PTC) equipped with evacuated tubes were integrated. Then, with the same attachments, CuO nanocoating was applied to the basin surface in Case II, aiming to enhance heat absorption. Finally, in Case III, CuO nanofluid was used in the presence of all previous enhancers. The system was studied during summer days with weather parameters having average ranges (minimum – peak) of 32.5–37.5 °C (ambient temperature), 318.5–1000 W/m² (solar radiation), and 1.1–2.3 m/s (wind speed). The results were very acceptable and competitive. All modified configurations of the advanced TSS (ATSS) significantly increased distillate production compared to the classic TSS (CTSS), with a range of 49.84–79.88 %. Case III stood out as the most successful configuration, achieving outstanding gains in both energy and exergy efficiencies. Compared to the CTSS, Case III boasted an impressive 83.69 % improvement in energy efficiency and a staggering 242.45 % increase in exergy efficiency. This refers to a system that not only produces more desalinated water but also does so with significantly less wasted energy, making it a more environmentally sustainable solution. Case III also offered a good economic advantage with a 13.51 % cost reduction compared to CTSS.