Tanzim F.S., Rahman M.M., Asmatulu R.
Wichita State University, US
Keywords: carbon fibers, desalination, evaporation, fresh water, salt water
Water scarcity is a growing problem for large regions of the world because of the insufficient sources of fresh water to meet the demands. It is estimated that 2.8 billion people around the world have at least one month of clean water shortages. Approximately, 1.2 billion people lack access to clean drinking water worldwide. It is believed that fresh water problem can be addressed using effective desalination process in a cost effective manner. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the increase in the evaporation rates via thermally and electrically conductive carbon fibers during desalination process. Analysis of the rate of evaporation along with the rise in temperature and decrease in weight was carried out by using light sources under similar environmental conditions at different heights and salt concentrations. Test results indicated that carbon fibers drastically accelerated evaporation and desalination rates of salt water, and reduced the major costs (e.g., electricity, and maintenance) of the process.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Materials for Energy, Efficiency and Sustainability: TechConnect Briefs 2018
Published: May 13, 2018
Pages: 138 - 141
Industry sector: Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Water Technologies
ISBN: 978-0-9975117-9-6