Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Overview of innovation

The Vapour-Based Passive Multistage Solar Desalination System offers a sustainable and efficient solution for desalinating water using solar energy. The system is designed to operate off-grid, utilizing solar heat to drive the desalination process, making it ideal for remote areas where access to conventional power sources is limited.

The system comprises several key components: a direct solar-heated open-loop process using an Enhanced Thermal Solar Collector (ETSC), an evaporator that feeds five distillation stages through vapour conduits, and a zig-zag copper heat exchange tube for latent heat recovery. A basin-type solar still serves as a top-stage reservoir and preheater, while float valves and passive brine circulation ensure minimal maintenance.

The system efficiently neutralises the pH of wastewater, typically varying between highly acidic (pH 3-4) or alkaline, bringing it to a more neutral range of 6.5-7.5. While the system does not remove dissolved salts, it is designed to work with saline-tolerant plants downstream to address this issue.

With growing demand for sustainable water solutions, this system presents an environmentally friendly, low-maintenance, and cost-effective option for water purification, especially in regions where freshwater resources are scarce or contaminated.

Benefits:

  • Operates off-grid using solar panels and gravity for energy, making it ideal for remote locations.
  • Modular design allows easy scaling to meet varying water treatment needs.
  • Low maintenance, requiring minimal skilled labour to operate.
  • Provides an eco-friendly solution to desalination without the need for high energy consumption.
  • Ideal for use in off-grid areas or locations with limited access to fresh water.

Offering:

We are looking for a potential licensee who would like to license and commercialise the product.

Type of Intellectual Property protection
Patent
Innovation Opportunity Type
Licensing
Industry
Agriculture, forestry and fishing
Water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 9 – Being utilized by the end user