Portable and integrated solar-driven desalination system using membrane distillation for arid remote areas in Saudi Arabia

We have developed an integrated solar-driven desalination system that uses membrane distillation process to produce potable water. The system encompasses the sources of both water and energy. The system is an integrated (self-contained) system that utilizes solar energy for its operation by combining solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal collectors. The system is intended for autonomous operation in arid remote areas of Saudi Arabia where electricity and potable water are not readily available. Due to its portability, the system can be used in emergency situations in which potable water is essential for survival, such as natural disasters. The system has three major components: the solar-thermal system, solar-PV system, and membrane distillation system. A well-characterized memsys Vacuum Multi-Effect Membrane Distillation (V-MEMD) module was used as the core of the system. In addition, a heat pump was integrated into the system to improve the performance of the system. The novelty of the system is the engineered design of a portable and efficient integrated system that is reliable and easy to maintain. The system could be referred to as an environmentally friendly and sustainable desalination technology. The paper describes the design, configuration, and performance of the solar-driven desalination system. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.