Performance improvements of single slope solar still using graphite plate fins and magnets

In this paper, the performance of a single slope solar still has been improved using graphite plate fins and magnets (GPF-MSS) in the basin and compared with conventional solar still (CSS) under the same climate conditions. The experiments have been carried out at Coimbatore city in India during the summer months of 2019. The energy and exergy performances of solar stills have been assessed under the influence of solar irradiation, ambient temperature, and wind velocity. The economic and environmental benefits were evaluated for the period of 10 years. The quality of productivity collected was measured and compared with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The results showed that the productivity, energy, and exergy efficiency of GPF-MSS were improved by 19.6%, 21.4%, and 18.1%, respectively, when compared to CSS. The exergy destruction in basin was reduced significantly in GPF-MSS due to sensible heat absorption by graphite plate fins and magnets when compared to CSS. The payback period of GPF-MSS and CSS was estimated as 3.4 and 3.6 months, respectively. The enviro-economic analysis revealed that the net CO2 emissions of GPF-MSS and CSS were estimated as 14.1 tons and 8.42 tons, respectively. The carbon credits earned for GPF-MSS and CSS were estimated as 338.4 USD and 202.1 USD, respectively. The quality of distillate obtained from both the solar stills has met the requirements of BIS. Graphical abstract

Automated summary

In this study, the performance of a single slope solar still was improved by utilizing graphite plate fins and magnets, which resulted in increased productivity, energy, and exergy efficiency compared to conventional solar stills under the same climate conditions. The economic and environmental benefits were evaluated over a 10-year period, showing reduced CO2 emissions and carbon credits earned with the improved solar still design. Distillate quality from both systems met the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards.