Solar water desalination

Feasibility Study "DesertGreener" (2018–2020)
In the first project phase, a prototype of the solar-powered water desalination plant "DesertGreener" was examined on behalf of ConteDesal GmbH. The focus was on the analysis of the economic and technical feasibility as well as the identification of optimization possibilities. The focus was on the investigation of operation parameters such as distillate production and technical performance. Additionally, the feasibility of an ETFE membrane mirror system to protect the evaporator unit and increase energy efficiency was considered. The study laid the groundwork for the further development of the technology and provided valuable insights into the strengths and challenges of the system.
 

Further Development and Proof-of-Concept (2021–2022)
Building on the results of the feasibility study, a further project was initiated on behalf of WaterTransformer GmbH. The aim was to further increase the efficiency of the system and analyze its operation under real conditions. The main focuses were on providing advice on improving solar energy absorption and storage. Technical measurement investigations were also carried out to assess performance and identify weaknesses. The data obtained showed potential for efficiency improvements and provide a solid basis for future developments.

A kick-off workshop on July 4th, 2024, marked the start of another solar water desalination project in cooperation with Seawater BV GmbH. The goal is the preparatory conception and detailed elaboration of the development and implementation project for a "tower system" for solar desalination as well as the technological coordination and strategic planning of the project phases. The Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics IBP and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) are providing scientific support to the development team and, in particular, technological support in the definition of development steps and milestones, detailed system configuration, and the specification of components and assemblies. The focus is on the technical concept and the analysis of optimal implementation options. Fraunhofer IBP is currently working with the Viennese project team of Seawater BV GmbH to develop the basic concept for the overall system. As soon as this phase is completed, a subsequent implementation project will follow in which both Fraunhofer Institutes will be involved.