Thermo-physical characteristics and storage material compatibility in nano-enhanced phase change materials for solar distillation applications: A critical assessment

Distillation of impure water using solar technology has gained significant attention due to its simplicity of set-up, utilization of renewable energy, and leaves no harmful traces to the environment during its working and also post disposal. However, the yield of fresh water obtained from solar distillation unit is comparatively less as compared to other distillation techniques. Incorporation of nano phase change material (nPCM) in the basin has the ability to enhance the evaporation rate and consequently results in higher yield. Therefore, this very article presents a thorough discussion on the nPCM, its classification, properties, selection criteria, and its physical change concerning conductivity. The article also summarizes the effect of concentration of nPCM on the latent heat capacity and thermal reliability. The affinity of nPCM with the storage container and its consequences has also been discussed in the present article. A critical examination of the utilization of nPCM in solar distillation has been carried out which would be beneficial in selecting nPCM suitable to the applications. In addition to it, a cost analysis has been carried out to examine the viability of various nPCM utilized in solar distillation.