Design, Construction, and Evaluation of an Innovative Solar Distillation System for Water Purification: A Case Study in Sirjan

Authors

1 Sirjan University of Technology

2 Graduate University of Advanced Technology

Abstract
This study designed and constructed an innovative solar distillation system with an emphasis on extremely low cost, ease of construction, and the use of locally available materials. It was tested under real-world climatic conditions in Iran, specifically in the city of Sirjan. The system's primary goal is to produce safe drinking water from contaminated sources without relying on fossil fuels or grid electricity. The key innovation lies not in thermodynamic principles, but in the practical feasibility of a truly affordable solution built using recycled and readily obtainable parts.Experiments were conducted during summer and autumn, using an initial water volume of 500 cc under various environmental conditions. Parameters such as ambient temperature, initial water temperature, and the volume of distilled water produced were recorded. Results indicated that the system's thermal performance is dependent on solar radiation. Under optimal conditions (midday on a clear summer day), it achieved an overall thermal efficiency of 19.6%, which is a commendable efficiency given its minimal construction cost. Microbiological tests confirmed the system's ability to completely purify water; total coliform counts dropped from 100 CFU/100ml in the input water to zero in the treated output. The innovative use of discrete mosaic mirrors, instead of a continuous parabolic mirror, played a key role in reducing cost while maintaining performance. Due to its simple construction, energy independence, and proven effectiveness, this technology offers a sustainable, practical, and cost-effective solution for providing safe drinking water in arid regions of the country.

Keywords


  • Receive Date 04 August 2025
  • Revise Date 21 September 2025
  • Accept Date 06 October 2025
  • First Publish Date 06 October 2025
  • Publish Date 23 September 2025