Investigation of a Pyramid Solar Still with CuO Nanoparticles-Paraffin Wax Blend as Energy Storage Material

An experimental investigation was conducted to enhance the efficiency of pyramid solar still utilizing CuO nanoparticles as an energy storage medium. The primary objective was to improve water productivity and system efficiency by enhancing thermal energy absorption and storage by integrating copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles into the phase change material (PCM). The experimental setup includes two systems: a conventional pyramid solar still (CPSS) and a modified version incorporating 0.05% by weight of CuO nanoparticles. The performance was measured using key parameters such as water production, temperature variation, and system efficiency. The pyramid solar still incorporating CuO nanoparticles produced an average water yield of 7.0 litres per day, in contrast to conventional still that produces 3.7 litres per day, indicating 89.19% enhancement in water output. The modified still achieved a maximum water temperature of 72 degrees C, whereas the conventional system reached 61.5 degrees C. The research indicates that integrating CuO nanoparticles into pyramid solar still distinctly improves water production and thermal efficiency, presenting a viable approach for increasing freshwater generation in arid and semi-arid areas.