Resolution of energy balance equations for cascade solar still using Matlab/SimulikTM

The need for production of fresh water from brackish water is considerably high, especially in dry regions. In this paper a new approach to design of solar still absorber plate was developed and its effect on the productivity was investigated theoretically. A mathematical model was developed to calculate the theoretical productivity of the solar still. The energy balance equations for the various elements of the solar still are formulated and numerically solved; using the dynamic simulation program Matlab/SimulinkTM. The performance of the still was investigated. The results show that the thermal performance of a modified stepped solar still can be considerably improved through the new modification.