Innovative solar-assisted direct contact membrane distillation system: Dynamic modeling and performance analysis

Abstract

The study presents an innovative solar-assisted dual-tank direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) system designed to enhance the operational stability and efficiency of solar-powered desalination. The proposed system integrates a dual thermal storage tank configuration, allowing for continuous operation by alternating between two tanks that store pre-heated water, thereby mitigating the impact of solar energy fluctuations. The dynamic modeling approach used in this study predicts the system's performance under varying solar conditions, focusing on key parameters such as permeate flux, evaporation efficiency, and specific thermal energy consumption. The simulation results show that the system achieves an average permeate flux of 14.4 L/h m² and a thermal efficiency of 53.3 % at a hot water temperature of 60 °C, with a corresponding average specific thermal energy consumption of 1567 kWh/m³. These findings highlight a substantial improvement in both thermal efficiency and water production compared to conventional single-tank systems.

The dual-tank DCMD system is particularly suited for deployment in remote or arid regions where stable and efficient freshwater production is critical. This research provides a comprehensive analysis of a novel solar-assisted desalination technology, contributing to the advancement of sustainable water resources management by providing a reliable and scalable solution that can maintain high operational efficiency even in remote areas with variable solar conditions.