Concentrating Fresnel lens technology for thermal desalination

Abstract

We describe the design of a small thermal desalination unit for use in refugee camps or in emergency situations that might be found after natural disasters. The thermal evaporation and condenser stages are separated for higher efficiency and the process is powered by low-cost PMMA concentrating Fresnel lenses. The overall concept is explained, and the detailed design is presented. The durability of the PMMA lenses is discussed. The design is calculated to produce up to 100 litres of fresh water per day in MENA regions with DNI>700 W/m2 over 8 hours, assuming 50% efficiency. Two manufactured prototypes are to be built in Israel and deployed in Palestine and Jordan for field testing.We describe the design of a small thermal desalination unit for use in refugee camps or in emergency situations that might be found after natural disasters. The thermal evaporation and condenser stages are separated for higher efficiency and the process is powered by low-cost PMMA concentrating Fresnel lenses. The overall concept is explained, and the detailed design is presented. The durability of the PMMA lenses is discussed. The design is calculated to produce up to 100 litres of fresh water per day in MENA regions with DNI>700 W/m2 over 8 hours, assuming 50% efficiency. Two manufactured prototypes are to be built in Israel and deployed in Palestine and Jordan for field testing.