Using Finned Absorber, Vertical Wick Distiller, and Improved-Phase Change Materials with Emerging Fins and Nanoparticles to Optimize Trays Distiller

Authors

• Wissam H. Alawee, Control and Systems Engineering Department, University of Technology, Baghdad, IraqFollow
• Fadl A. Essa, Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, EgyptFollow
• S. Shanmugan, Research Centre for Solar Energy, Department of Physics, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Green Fields, Guntur District, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh 522502, IndiaFollow
• A. S. Abdullah, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering in Al-Kharj, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi ArabiaFollow
• Z. M. Omara, Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, EgyptFollow

Abstract

The main goal of this work is to improve the efficacy of TSS (trays solar still). To obtain this, the study explores a novel approach to solar desalination by integrating the TSS with four innovative features: a vertical wick still (VWSS), TSS with a finned wick absorber (MFTSS), internal mirrors, and PCM-Ag-NPs (paraffin wax containing silver Nanos). Two shapes of absorber plate (finned and flat) have been studied with EF (emerging fins) in PCM unit. The introduction of Ag-Nano and the emerging fins within PCM have both increased its low heat conductivity. Experimental findings indicate that the MFTSS with PCM-Ag-NPs yielded the highest freshwater production, with a combined productivity of 11050 mL/m²/day when integrated with VWSS and PCM-Ag-NPs. This represents a significant 251% increase in contrast to the production of the standalone conventional single-basin solar still (CSS) system. Additionally, concerning energy efficiency, the TSS, TSS+VWSS, MFTSS, and MFTSS with PCM-Ag-NPs demonstrated efficiencies of 40%, 50%, 63%, and 68%, respectively.

Recommended Citation

Alawee, Wissam H.; Essa, Fadl A.; Shanmugan, S.; Abdullah, A. S.; and Omara, Z. M. (2026) "Using Finned Absorber, Vertical Wick Distiller, and Improved-Phase Change Materials with Emerging Fins and Nanoparticles to Optimize Trays Distiller," Terra Joule Journal: Vol. 2: Iss. 2, Article 1.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64071/3080-5724.1032