Solar Still
The Solar Still is a groundbreaking and eco-friendly innovation designed to tackle the pressing global challenges of water scarcity and contamination. By harnessing the power of sunlight, this device purifies water through a natural and efficient solar distillation process, making it safe and potable without the need for electricity, chemicals, or complex infrastructure. It operates by evaporating contaminated or brackish water using solar heat, then condensing the resulting vapor into clean, drinkable water while leaving impurities, salts, and toxins behind.
This sustainable and cost-effective solution is ideal for rural communities, disaster relief efforts, off-grid living, and environmentally conscious households. With its ability to provide a dependable source of safe water in areas lacking access to traditional purification systems, the Solar Still represents a significant step toward promoting global health, sustainability, and resilience in the face of water-related challenges.
The Challenge
Challenges persist in lowering costs and scaling solar still technology. While production costs have decreased by 10% in the past five years, further reductions of 25% and a 40% boost in efficiency are needed by 2028 to meet the growing demand for affordable, sustainable water solutions.
The global need for clean water is increasing due to population growth, climate change, and water scarcity. Over the last five years, solar stills, which use solar energy to purify water, have grown by 20% annually in water-scarce regions. This adoption is expected to rise by 15% per year through 2028, reaching 5 million solar stills in use by then.
How does it work?
Contaminated water is placed in the evaporation basin.
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2.
Sunlight is focused onto the water using magnifying glasses.
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Water evaporates leaving impurities behind.
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Vapor condenses in a cooling coil and collects in a reservoir.
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Optional purifying agents enhance water quality.
Design Details
Components
Magnifying lens to focus sunlight.
Durable metal frame for longevity.
Cooling coil to condense water vapor.
Mechanisms
Sunlight heats water in the base chamber.
Evaporation leaves impurities behind.
Condensed water collects as purified, drinkable water.
Scalability
Can be designed for single households or large communities.
Customization
Modular design allows for easy upgrades or repairs.
Benefits of Solar Stills
Why are Solar Stills important?
Sustainability: Uses renewable solar energy.
Low Cost: Simple to build and maintain.
Environmentally Friendly: No chemical processes, uses natural resources.
Portable: Can be set up anywhere with sunlight, especially in arid regions
Provides clean drinking water without chemicals
Improves health and reduces waterborne diseases
Reduces reliance on bottled water and expensive filters
Promotes sustainability and environmental conservation