Effects of Utilizing Black Glass Balls, Phase Change Material, and Fins on the Performance of the Single-Slope and Single-Basin Solar Water Distiller under Climate Conditions of Mosul City: An Experimental Study

Abstract

The present investigation involves an experimental examination of incorporating rectangular fins, black glass balls as porous media, and phase change material (PCM) above the absorber surface to improve the effectiveness of the single-slope and single-basin solar water distiller system, known as MSS-FPPCM. Data was gathered in November and December 2023 in Mosul City, Iraq. The performance was evaluated with and without the addition of porous media at varying water depths. The results indicated that the highest basin water temperature, PCM temperature, productivity, and efficiency were achieved when utilizing fins, black glass balls, and PCM. The maximum temperatures recorded for water basin and PCM, productivity, and efficiency were 55°C, 55.4°C, 1.01 kg/m², and 30.83%, respectively, at a water depth of 3cm. The results highlight the significant impact of porous media, phase change material, fins, and water depth on heat exchange, evaporation, and heat transfer rates.