Optimizing solar still performance: A study of TiO2 nanofluid derived from Saccharum officinarum L.

Abstract

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L. (SO)), a widely cultivated tropical crop, provides a sustainable source of raw material for producing TiO₂ nanoparticles (T). This study investigates the potential of these nanoparticles to improve the efficiency of Single Basin Solar Distiller (SBD), which is devices that harness solar energy to purify water. A novel SBD design featuring a unique basin shape and aluminum silver bottles (AS) filled with TiO₂ nanofluid (ASTSO) was constructed and tested in Vijayawada, India. The AS arranged in a bowl-like configuration and filled with nanofluid, significantly enhance heat absorption. Moreover, the SBD’s unique basin shape increases the evaporative surface area by 26 % compared to conventional solar stills (CSS). The SBD demonstrated a notable increase in water production, achieving yields of 8.437 kg/m2/day in summer and 8.087 kg/m2/day in winter. This corresponds to a daily efficiency (ASTSO) of 58.73 % in summer and 47.52 % in winter, representing a substantial improvement over traditional solar stills. The enhanced performance is attributed to the improved thermal properties of the nanofluid, which accelerate the evaporation and condensation processes. The nanofluids higher thermal conductivity and heat absorption capacity contribute to the increased water production. A comparative economic analysis of the SBD and CSS was conducted, revealing that the projected cost of distilled water from both systems is expected to remain stable at Rs 1.93/kg and Rs 2.19/kg, respectively, over the next decade. This research presents a promising approach to enhance the efficiency and productivity of solar stills, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution for water purification. Future research will focus on optimizing nanofluid concentrations, exploring other nanomaterials, and integrating advanced solar stills with renewable energy technologies to develop sustainable water purification systems.