Thermal gradient humidification-dehumidification desalination system
A solar energy desalination process utilizing solar radiation directly for the evaporation of salt water is described. Ambient air takes on water vapor as the air passes through an evaporative medium. It is then directed between a saline water-covered, solar absorbing surface and a solar collecting housing. The resulting heated and moisture-saturated air is cooled in a heat exchange means where condensation of fresh water occurs. Simultaneously, cool salt water is utilized as the cooling water in the heat exchange means, and takes on the heat of condensation given up by the condensing vapor. The heated salt water from the heat exchange means is partially directed over the solar absorbing surface, and at least a portion of it is also directed to wet the evaporative medium. Several optional sub-processes are described for operation of the system during periods of reduced insolation, and an alternative process is described for operation of the process on a floating platform.
- Assignee:
- Institute of Gas Technology
- Patent Number(s):
- US 4363703
- OSTI ID:
- 6537677
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
140909* -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Miscellaneous Solar Applications-- (1980-)
AIR
DEHUMIDIFICATION
DEMINERALIZATION
DESALINATION
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
ENERGY SOURCES
EQUIPMENT
EVAPORATION
FLUIDS
GASES
HEAT EXCHANGERS
HUMIDIFIERS
HYDROGEN COMPOUNDS
OXYGEN COMPOUNDS
PHASE TRANSFORMATIONS
PURIFICATION
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
SEAWATER
SEPARATION PROCESSES
SOLAR ABSORBERS
SOLAR ENERGY
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
TEMPERATURE GRADIENTS
VAPOR CONDENSATION
WATER