Performance investigation of solar still by using Al2O3 nanoparticles in vacuum condition

This study explores the potential of Al2O3 nanoparticles and vacuum operation to enhance solar still performance.A double-slope solar still is designed, fabricated, and tested under two conditions: conventional (Case 1) and with nanoparticles under vacuum (Case 2). Integrating 0.5% Al2O3 nanoparticles and an 8-10 psi vacuum pressure significantly improved productivity. Case 2 achieved a maximum hourly productivity of 5.61 L/m², exceeding Case 1’s 3.29 L/m² by 33%. Daily productivity also saw a substantial 75.09% increase. This improvement translated to efficiency, with Case 2 reaching a maximum of 72.66% compared to Case 1’s 42.60%. Daily average efficiency followed suit, with Case 2 demonstrating a 70.56% increase. Exergy efficiency followed a similar trend, with Case 2 achieving 4.97% compared to Case 1’s 2.26% (a 119% rise). These results highlight the effectiveness of Al2O3 nanoparticles and vacuum in boosting solar still efficiency, particularly under low solar intensity conditions.