2026-04-01 ARABIAN JOURNAL FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2026 51(卷), 7(期), (9839-9848页)
The availability of safe drinking water is a critical issue around the world, particularly in areas with scarce freshwater resources. This study focuses on enhancing water distillation efficiency through experimental modifications to a pyramid solar still. The research investigates the efficacy of incorporating six aluminum fins, measuring 0.96 x 0.2 m with a thickness of 2 mm, compared to a baseline configuration without fins. The aluminum fins were selected due to their high thermal conductivity, which contributes to improved heat transfer inside the basin. The solar still basin, sized at 1 x 0.98 x 0.3 m, was coated with black paint to optimize solar energy absorption. Two sequential experiments were undertaken under stable weather conditions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, assessing variables such as the intensity of solar radiation, atmospheric temperature, and wind velocity. Results demonstrate a significant 47.1% increase in distilled water production when utilizing fins compared to the control group. Additionally, the use of fins led to improved temperature differentials between the water and cover, facilitating enhanced heat transfer and higher water temperatures. This research fosters the progress of efficient solar still designs for mitigating water scarcity challenges, particularly in arid regions, offering practical solutions for sustainable water purification technologies.