Recent advances in solar still technology for solar water desalination

Abstract Water is signified as the gift of nature. However, modern societies are in tremendous need of fresh water due to the abundant industrial sector and factory growth that is leading to more and more such natural resource pollution. Also, there are global arid and desert areas where there are fewer regular rainfalls besides groundwater scarcity. Additionally, although there are abundant water bodies, most of them are not suitable for domestic irrigation, and especially for drinking purposes since they are brackish or saline water. Thus, water desalination is essential with no impact on the environment. Solar desalination is proven to be a sustainable and reasonable way for producing potable water. Numerous sorts of solar stills are introduced, and the most exhibited one is the conventional type of solar still, that is, so-called basin solar still. However, the low productivity of such solar still is signified as its major concern. Researchers have made their efforts to improve the productivity of solar stills through various designs and operating parameters. This detailed review is mainly focused on the various types of solar stills, their analyses and the status of several solar distillers. Throughout the entire work, it is confirmed and recommended to enhance the performance through advanced modifications that are also discussed. Such modifications are including advanced designs such as pyramid triangular solar stills, tubular, double basins and hemispherical and spherical solar stills. Also, integrated systems stills are recommended, such as connected solar stills with photo voltaic cells (PVC) or solar collectors to increase productivity.