Analytical modeling and numerical solution of a simple solar still

Abstract

Even though most part of the planet is covered by water, many regions experiences situation of severe draught. Solar still devices presents as a solution to scarcity of water in hot climate regions, where electricity does not reach. These devices are very simple and present ability of converting available saline or low quality water into potable water. In this work, multiphysics of an inclined square solar still device are numerically studied through finite volume method. The phenomenon of double-diffusion natural convection is considered for problem modeling. Velocities, temperature and concentration fields are obtained when Rayleigh number is varied from 104 to 107. Solar still capacity is analyzed through condensation rate parameter, for the mentioned Rayleigh number range.