AcquaQuantum

Solar humidification-dehumidification desalination (HD) unit

The energy demand of desalination is often prohibitive – electricity is expensive or not available within
the needed capacities. The AcquaQuantum desalination systems solve this obstacle by tremendously
reduced energy demand for the desalination process, applying a very effective and energy saving heat
recovery system.

The solar HD is a thermal water desalination method. It is based on evaporation of seawater or brackish
water and consecutive condensation of the generated humid air, mostly at the ambient pressure. The
solar HD process is also called the multiple-effect humidification-dehumidification process; solar
multistage condensation evaporation cycle (SMCEC) or multiple-effect humidification (MEH) is a
technique that simulates the natural water cycle on a shorter time frame by evaporating and condensing
water to separate it from other substances. The driving force in this process is the solar thermal energy
to produce water vapor, which is later condensed in a separate chamber.

Fig. 1 Conceptual diagram Single stage HD desalination

Solar Distillation is by far the most reliable, least costly method of 99.9% true purification of most types
of contaminated water. Solar distillation is used to produce drinking water or to produce pure water for
lead acid batteries, laboratories, hospitals and in producing commercial products such as rose water
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Quality of the produced fresh water

The product is fresh water in its cleanest form:

Distillate without any dissolved solids and free of bacteria or organic contaminations.

For human consumption, the water can be blended by good fresh water or re-mineralized with a simple
cartridge process using marble stones. For irrigation or household use, blending or adding of fertilizer
solutions is possible.

Advantages of desalination units

 Ease of use, no specialists required, local residents can operate the system
 Sturdy design to withstand rough ambient conditions (heat, frost, hail, dirt, heavy rain, etc.)
 Low expenditure in terms of operation and maintenance
 No chemical pre-treatment need
 High water recovery
 cheap spare parts

The main components.

Solar collectors, thermal storage tank. heat exchanger.

Piping and insulation protection
Flash stages, thermal compressor
Humidifier, dehumidifier
Pumps, wires, sensors, electronic Controller, display and data logging.

Schematic diagram.
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Modular Skid concept

HD1000 Capacity 1 m3/day (5’ standard container)

HD5000 Capacity 5 m3/day (20’ standard container)

HD10000 Capacity 10 m3/day (40’ standard container)