Thermal-economic analysis and comparison between pyramid-shaped and single-slope solar still configurations

This paper presents an analytical study as well as thermal and economic comparisons between two solar still configurations: the pyramid and the single slope. A mathematical model was developed to simulate the two configurations and study their thermal performance. The meteorological data of Aswan City (south of Egypt) were used, and the daily total energy received by each still basin was calculated. The main performance parameters such as still productivity and efficiency are presented for the whole year. In addition, an economic assessment of the distilled water production cost has been carried out. On the basis of yearly performance results, the single slope still was found to be slightly more efficient and economical than the pyramidal one.