A theoretical and experimental investigation of a small-scale solar-powered barometric desalination system

This paper describes and evaluates a theoretical and experimental study of a solar-powered barometric desalination system in which drinking water can be distilled from seawater. The paper describes the system and the experimental apparatus used to test a simple design theory. Experimental results are provided and compared with the given theory. A good correlation between theory and experiment indicates that the distillate production rate depends on the heat exchanger effectiveness of the condenser, solar insolation and evaporator pressure. Results are used to provide an outline specification for a device able to provide fresh water to a small family group. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.