Improving single-slope passive solar still efficiency through integration of phase change materials and Al2O3 nanoparticles

This research explores the enhancement of single-slope solar still performance using phase change material (PCM), specifically paraffin, incorporating Al2O3 nanoparticles. The application of paraffin, a PCM, improves energy storage density and maintains a consistent temperature during the phase transition. Adding Al2O3 nanoparticles to the PCM improves its thermal properties, increasing production rates. Three scenarios were tested for comparison: (1) a standalone solar still, (2) a solar still with PCM, and (3) a solar still with PCM containing Al2O3 nanoparticles. The productivity yields for these systems were 0.837 kg, 0.924 kg, and 1.145 kg, respectively. The results indicate a significant improvement in the solar still's performance upon adding PCM and Al2O3 nanoparticles, yielding a 10.38% increase in daily output and a 36.77% increase in daily distillate compared to the standalone solar still. Optimizing the temperature difference between the water and the glass surface through ideal water spraying conditions also bolstered the distillate production rate. The outcomes from this research suggest that solar distillation plants, which provide an efficient source of clean drinking water, can significantly improve performance and productivity by leveraging the benefits of innovative materials such as nanoparticles.