SOLAR STILL
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Risk :
BLACK SKY
Type :
Hydration
Possibility :
Doable
Scale :
Household
What does it do?
Provides a reliable and sustainable source of clean drinking water by using solar energy to purify contaminated or brackish water.
Type :
How does it work?
The solar still works by harnessing solar energy to purify water. Contaminated or brackish water is placed in the basin, where the sun’s heat causes the water to evaporate. As the water vapour rises, it leaves behind contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, salts, and heavy metals. The vapour then condenses on the clear surface above and drips into a collection trough as purified water.
Benefits
Solar stills can offer reliable water purification in situations where essential infrastructures are disrupted by power outages. By removing harmful contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, salts, and heavy metals, they ensure safe drinking water even when regular sources are compromised or unavailable.
What makes solar stills particularly valuable is their energy independence; they operate entirely on solar power, eliminating the need for external electricity.
The portability and versatility of solar stills further enhance their usefulness. They can be designed for both personal and community use, making them scalable and adaptable to various needs and contexts.
They are also cost-effective. The simplicity of their design ensures they are affordable and if made with the right materials, accessible to a wide range of people.
Materials & design
The solar still basin is made from durable, lightweight, and UV-resistant plastic, such as recycled HDPE or polycarbonate. These materials are chosen not only for their sustainability but also for their availability within the UK. The condensation surface of the still, where water vapour collects and condenses, is crafted from clear, scratch-resistant polycarbonate or tempered glass. This surface is designed to be angled optimally to maximise sunlight exposure and water collection efficiency.
To enhance the purity of the collected water, a filtration layer of fine mesh or activated carbon is woven in, which pre-filters larger particles before evaporation. This addition not only improves water quality but also extends the lifespan of the still. The water collection trough is made from stainless steel or food-grade plastic, ensuring that the purified water remains uncontaminated. These materials are selected for their longevity, ease of cleaning, and resistance to corrosion.
For portability, the design could include collapsible or foldable components, allowing for easy transport and storage. The handles, if made from durable, lightweight materials like aluminium or reinforced plastic, can ensure that the still can also be carried with ease.