Design and Fabrication of a Bench-Scale Solar-Thermal Desalination System for Brackish ...

Objective: To develop and demonstrate a solar-thermal desalination unit capable of purifying brackish water to potable standards using sustainable, cost-effective materials and processes.

India faces acute freshwater scarcity in many arid and semi-arid regions, where brackish groundwater is often the only available source. This affects rural communities, agricultural productivity, and poses significant health risks due to high salinity and contaminants in drinking water.

The proposed solution is a bench-scale solar-thermal desalination unit that leverages solar energy to evaporate and condense water, removing dissolved salts and impurities. The system integrates solar collectors, heat exchangers, and a multi-effect distillation chamber, designed for efficiency and low-cost fabrication using locally available materials.

Key deliverables include a fully functional prototype, process flow diagrams, detailed design documentation, water quality analysis (TDS, conductivity, pH), and an economic feasibility report. The group will present a live demonstration, with real-time purification of synthetic brackish water and quality validation against IS 10500:2012 standards.

This project supports sustainable water access in resource-constrained areas, offers potential for rural deployment, and aligns with national clean water initiatives. The scalable design can be adapted for community and industrial use, making it relevant for both social and commercial impact.