Mathematical Modelling of a Low-Pressure Solar-Assisted Desalination Plant

A novel solar energy desalination plant is the subject of this paper. In this plant, the evaporation occurs at low pressure and temperature. The novelty of the process lies in the reduction of the pressure simply due to the height of evaporator. This paper initially describes the novel system and the derivation of a mathematical model for it. The main variables studied include condenser geometry, water flowrate and temperature, and evaporator pressure. The results of the model indicate that the amount of distillate production depends directly on the condense geometry, flow rate, water inlet temperature, evaporator pressure and solar intensity. The results of the model have been used to produce a prototype design, which will be commissioned and tested to verify the feasibility of the proposed plant and validate the model. Validation will allow extension and use of the model to various locations of the world.