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Experimental Investigation on Floating Solar-Driven Membrane Distillation Desalination Modules.
Qingxiu Miao1, Yaoling Zhang1, Shuo Cong1
1School of Energy and Power Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
Membranes
|April 30, 2021
Summary
Floating solar-driven membrane distillation (MD) modules are feasible for small-scale seawater desalination. Natural sea waves enhance system performance by improving feed circulation and transport.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Membrane distillation (MD) requires a mild temperature gradient for desalination.
- Solar energy is a viable heat source for feed water.
- Seawater serves as an abundant cold source for condensation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of floating solar-driven MD modules for small-scale seawater desalination.
- To evaluate MD performance under various operational parameters.
- To assess the impact of natural sea waves on the system.
Main Methods:
- Proof-of-principle experiments were conducted on floating MD modules powered by a solar heating bag.
- Performance was tested under varying feed flow rate, temperature, salinity, and air gap.
- The effect of sea waves on module performance was investigated.
Main Results:
- Floating solar-driven MD modules demonstrated feasibility for permeate flux and salt rejection.
- The upward evaporation configuration showed improved permeate flux.
- Natural sea waves positively impacted feed circulation and transport.
Conclusions:
- Floating solar-driven MD modules offer a practical approach to small-scale seawater desalination.
- System performance is enhanced by natural sea wave action.
- Further optimization of upward evaporation configurations is recommended.
