Proposal and assessment of a novel hybrid system for water desalination using solar and geothermal energy sources

Abstract

The Earth\\\\\\'s radiation potential and solar energy can be suitable alternatives to other nonrenewable energies. This<br><br>work presents the study of solar desalination unit compounded with ground heat exchanger. The amount of<br><br>freshwater produced by the unit is assessed by solving mass and energy balance equations for the cycle\\\\\\'s various<br><br>sections including air and water solar collectors, solar humidifier and ground heat exchanger. Findings indicate<br><br>that under given conditions, using a solar collector increases freshwater production by 30.35%, whereas using<br><br>air solar collector increases it by 4.45% only. In addition, since the temperature of outlet air from the ground<br><br>heat exchanger has a constant value during various seasons of the year at a depth of 1 m under the ground, this<br><br>air flow can be harnessed to increase productivity in solar photovoltaic and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) cycles. The results of this paper could be considered as a step forward for producing freshwater<br><br>even during nighttime (when there is no solar radiation) in regions with humid climate.