Water scarcity is a growing global crisis, particularly in arid regions where conventional desalination methods are too costly and energy-intensive. Current technologies fail to provide sustainable, affordable solutions for widespread access to fresh water. This problem necessitates an innovative approach to desalination that minimizes energy consumption and operational costs, while utilizing renewable energy sources. Addressing this challenge is crucial for improving water availability, public health, and environmental sustainability.
Figure (1) Single extraction (multi-effect) solar humidifier based HDH desalination, (2) Solar humidifier/steam generator based dew vaporation technique
The invention is a novel desalination system designed to address the global water scarcity issue by offering a sustainable, cost-effective solution. The system integrates a Humidification-Dehumidification (HDH) cycle with a specialized heat exchanger, primarily powered by solar energy.
This innovative approach significantly reduces energy consumption and operational costs compared to conventional desalination methods. The modular design enhances scalability and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for diverse applications, including rural & urban water supply, industrial water treatment, and agricultural irrigation.
The system's ability to provide a reliable source of fresh water, with minimal environmental impact, positions it as a critical advancement in sustainable water management technologies.
- The uniqueness of this desalination system lies in its integration of a HDH cycle with an advanced heat exchanger, leveraging solar energy for enhanced efficiency. This innovative combination allows for efficient heat recovery, significantly reducing energy consumption and operational costs compared to conventional methods.
- The system's modular design allows for scalability and ease of maintenance, making it adaptable for various applications, from rural water supply to industrial use.
- By utilizing renewable energy, it offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution to the global water scarcity problem, setting it apart from traditional desalination technologies.
The prototype includes a first chamber for saline water, equipped with a heating element, and a second chamber for collecting fresh water. The system is designed to operate with minimal energy input, primarily utilizing solar energy. Experimental results show a high Gain Output Ratio (GOR) and efficient water recovery rates, validating the system's performance under various conditions.
Ongoing work focuses (funded by DST in partnership with BAIF) on demonstrating this work in the field at Tumkur, Karnataka.
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The invention can provide a reliable and affordable source of fresh water in water-scarce regions, improving public health and quality of life. By reducing dependence on conventional energy sources, it also contributes to environmental sustainability.
Environmental engineering, renewable energy, water treatment and desalination, rural & urban water supply systems, industrial water treatment, agricultural irrigation in arid regions, emergency and disaster relief water purification
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