Experimental Evaluation of an Inclined Solar Water Distillation System for Sustainable Dual Output in Rural Environments

In the quest for sustainable and decentralized water purification system, the present study introduces a novel Inclined Solar Water Distillation System (ISWDS) designed for enhanced freshwater yield and dual thermal utility. The system integrates cost-effective wick materials and flow control techniques to optimize performance. The ISWDS not only produces potable water but simultaneously delivers hot water suitable for domestic applications, thereby maximizing the utility of available solar energy. Experimental trials with black cloth and black fleece wicks reveal that fleece-based configurations yielded over three times more freshwater than the bare plate system. The unique inclination design of the system facilitates uniform water film formation, effective solar absorption, and natural drainage, eliminating the need for mechanical pumps. Temperature distribution and mass flow rate were systematically analyzed, confirming their critical role in enhancing evaporation and water quality. With Total dissolved solids reduced by up to 96%, the ISWDS emerges as an energy-independent, climate-resilient, and modular solution ideal for off-grid and rural communities. This study positions ISWDS as a forward-thinking alternative to conventional solar stills and energy-intensive RO systems, bridging innovation with sustainability in water purification.