Mechanical vapor compression desalination technology – A review

Multi effect desalination systems (MED) powered by Mechanical Vapor compression (MVC) are attractive systems for seawater/brackish water desalination due to the fact that these systems are independent of steam generation sources and hence fit well in remote areas. Renewable energy sources such as solar energy, wind energy or a combination of both can be used as sources of energy to power these systems. This work provides a review for the research investigations made in single and multi-effect desalination systems operated by mechanical vapor compressors. Classifications are made based on several criteria such as the nature of the study: theoretical, experimental or both, number of effects, source of energy, compressor type, and the effect of the system parameters. The review shows areas that require additional effort such as the use of wind energy to operate MED-MVC systems, the zero liquid discharge capabilities as well as the type and material used for the heat exchanger components: the evaporator and the condenser. Performance measures are included in this review along with a comparison between a large number of units reported in the existing research in terms of the power source, unit cost and specific power consumption. The unit production cost of desalinated water varies between 0.842 and 10 $/m³ while the specific power consumption ranges from 3.6 kWh/m³ to 193 kWh/m³ for a special case of treating high salinity water.