Use of a local Saharan plant (Cladium mariscus) in the solar still under southeast Algeria climate

• Published in: Desalination and water treatment 2023-11, Vol.311, p.162-168
• Main Authors: Aoun, Yacine, Chemsa, Ali, Khechekhouche, Abderrahmane, Bellila, Abderlkader, Kemerchou, Imad, Mostefaoui, Omar, Abderrahim, Allal
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Potable water; Solar energy; Solar radiation; Water accumulation
• ISSN: 1944-3986; 1944-3986
• DOI: 10.5004/dwt.2023.29998

This study presents an experimental comparison of three solar stills operating under identical weather conditions. The first still, designated as the control conventional solar still (CSS), was compared to two modified versions: one featuring plant Cladium mariscus in its green state modified solar still (MSS1) and the other with the same quantity of plant in its dry state. The primary objective was to assess how the presence of plant Cladium mariscus, available abundantly and free of cost in the region, influences the performance of the solar still. The underlying hypothesis was that such integration could enhance water production. The results of the experiments revealed notable improvement rates; with MSS1 achieving a 17.33% enhancement and MSS2 was demonstrating a remarkable 33.27% improvement. In terms of thermal efficiency, MSS1 achieved 28.25%, MSS2 reached 32.65%, while CSS recorded 25.37%. These findings offer valuable insights for the development of more effective strategies to address the challenges associated with drinking water scarcity.