Thoughts about solar distiller prototype no.1
There was some feedback after yesterday's post:
http://bkhome.org/news/201905/solar-distiller-prototype-underway.html
Derek suggested that I use cling film (also known as cling-wrap or
glad-wrap) on the glass, so will be able to lift the glass off afterward
and peal off the film.
I need to experiment with that option. Selleys 401 sealant is "acidic
cure", and it might bond to the cling-film, so I might be able to get
the glass off, but have to leave the cling-film behind.
Max expressed concern about aluminium and link with alzheimer's
disease. Yes, it is a matter of trying to find the lesser evil. The
Carocell panel is made with aluminium and plastic, and both of these may
have issues. At least I am using a glass pane rather than plastic film.
However, it seems the jury is still out, linking alzheimer's with aluminium:
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/risk-factors-and-prevention/metals-and-dementia
Anyway, this is prototype #1, and I will be able to change the
aluminium sheet with something else, or coat it. The wicking cloth is
another unknown -- I have obtained a black eco-friendly felt, and a
quick test it seems to have OK wicking properties -- but that is another
thing that may need to be improved.
One interesting point. The solar distiller could be use to heat
water. When camping, that could be very handy when want to have a
shower, as there are portable outdoor shower units that have a 12V pump
available. I think, if the water input flow rate is increased, so that
most goes through without getting evaporated, just warmed, we could then
fairly quickly collect enough for a shower. But of course, once
collected, it will start cooling. Interesting possibility, definitely
needs checking out!
Tags: nomad