Inventive Tubular Solar Stills: Improving Desalination Performance Through Phase Change Materials and Upgraded Design for Sustainable Water Solutions

ABSTRACT This paper reviews how tubular solar still designs can enhance thermal output and offer a sustainable desalination solution powered by solar energy. Conventional solar stills typically produce only 2–5 L/m²/day, highlighting the need for more efficient and practical designs for widespread adoption. Studies categorize performance improvement methods into two primary approaches, with particular emphasis on phase change materials due to their demonstrated efficacy. Experimental data shows that phase change materials can improve the system energy efficiency to a maximum of 30% and boost manufacturing capacity notably while reaching production quantities greater than 6 L/m²/day within optimal operating parameters. The review demonstrates how advanced wick materials, vacuum insulation together with reflective surfaces have enhanced both thermal performance and productivity of these systems. Geographical conditions, together with climate variables, influence the success of these enhancement methods; so, specific optimization measures must be developed for different locations. Recent experimental and theoretical research synthesis delivers important pathways for future development, which proves tubular solar stills as sustainable water scarcity solutions that produce less carbon than traditional desalination approaches.