Solar Stills-A Review

Many methods are being used for getting pure water which resultsin virus size impurities. Natural solar distillation already in existence from times immemorial is not able to meet the constantly increasing demand of pure water. Solar distillation in solar still can fill the gap for providing pure water. This method is simple, safe and does not require electricity and maintenance. Solar still in tilted orientation, blackened basin surface and low depth basin water results in more output. Sawdust insulation at the bottom has been found to be best insulation to increase output. Method is eco-friendly since it does not have any global warming and ozone depletion potential. It can be used anywhere and everywhere since solar energy is available in abundance in urban, rural and remote area around the year. Maximum output has been obtained between 11: 30 AM to 1: 30 PM. Solar stills having long life with minimum maintenance overcome the high initial investment cost of solar still and low output for the production of pure water. Continuous improvements in the design of solar still will give further momentum for the increased use of solar stills in future.