Solar Multistage Water Gap Membrane Distillation Module with Gap Circulation for Water Desalination

A new process and design of flux-enhanced and energy-efficient solar-powered water gap membrane distillation (WGMD) module are experimentally tested and evaluated for possible scaling up and commercialization. The gap water is circulated in a separate closed loop to enhance the heat and mass transfer characteristics inside the MD module. The water gap MD process is characterized by high distillate production, and its production can be enhanced by about 80 to 100% when the gap water is circulated with improvement in the energy consumption (Khalifa 2020, US Patent). The challenges of developing a multistage water gap MD module with circulation lines are considered in this project. In addition, the effect of gap water circulation on the performance will be studied through the detailed analytical model that will help in understanding the proven variable and may lead to design modifications for better performance. An evacuated tube solar collector will be used to heat the feed water. The dynamic variations of the integrated solar-MD system will be modelled during the operation hours of the day. The outcomes of the project are expected to help in developing the national water industry and security. Upon the completion of this work, a second phase of the project is proposed to focus on scaling up the system for pilot testing and possible product development